Raceme Catnip

Raceme Catnip Overview

Nepeta racemosa is also known commonly by the names dwarf catnip, raceme catnip or dwarf catmint. As the name suggests, cats are attracted to the plant and will often eat the leaves or roll in the foliage. Most of the plant is edible and can be used in soups or sauces or brewed into a tea. This species is a herbaceous perennial with aromatic, toothed foliage and delicate purple-blue flowers on vertical inflorescences. The flowers are arranged in terminal whorls, the flowers measure between 10-18mm in length and these are produced in summer. Foliage is green, aromatic and leaves are oppositely arranged on square stems. This species is fully hardy, plant in a position of full or partial sun, in moist, well-draining soil for optimal growth. This species has earnt a Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Award of Garden Merit. It is also part of the RHS “Plants for Pollinators” initiative to showcase plants which support pollinator populations by providing ample amounts of nectar and/ or pollen. A great choice for encouraging pollinating insect wildlife into your garden!