Catnip vs. Catmint: What’s the Difference?
If you’ve ever browsed a garden center or read up on plants that cats love, chances are you’ve encountered both “catnip” and “catmint.” It’s easy to confuse these two because they come from the same genus, Nepeta, and share many similarities in appearance and growing conditions. However, there are some notable differences in how they look, how they’re used, and how fiercely they attract our feline friends. Let’s take a closer look at these plants so you can decide which one suits your needs—whether you’re trying to delight your cat or simply beautify your garden.
Catnip vs. Catmint
Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is probably more famous among pet owners because it contains higher levels of nepetalactone, the active compound that causes that playful or euphoric “cat high.” If you’ve ever offered your cat store-bought catnip, you’ve seen just how it can affect your cat: some cats roll around in it, some become super cuddly, and others might simply calm down and relax. Not all cats are affected, though; about a third of them don’t have the genetic disposition for a strong response. Still, for those that do, catnip can be a real treat.
Catmint (Nepeta x faassenii and other hybrids) also contains nepetalactone but generally at lower concentrations. As a result, it often causes a milder reaction in cats, and sometimes has no visible effect at all. That slight difference is one reason you see catmint used more frequently as an ornamental plant in gardens. While some cats will still be attracted to catmint, it’s better known for its decorative mounds of gray-green foliage and its soft, lavender or purple-blue flowers that can bloom from late spring into early fall.
Visual Differences
When viewed side-by-side, catnip and catmint do look similar, particularly in their leaves. Both have the square stems characteristic of mint family plants, and their foliage has a somewhat “earthy-minty” aroma. Catnip leaves, however, tend to be a bit larger, lighter in color, and can appear slightly fuzzier. The flowers on catnip are usually a pale white or whitish-pink with little purple specks, giving them a more understated presence. In contrast, catmint cultivars have showier, more abundant flowers in shades of lavender or blue.
Beyond appearances, there’s also a contrast in how these plants behave in your garden. Catnip has a reputation for growing somewhat scraggly and can look a bit unkempt if left to its own devices. Some gardeners embrace the wild, natural feel; others prefer catnip contained in a dedicated area or grown in containers. Meanwhile, catmint is often praised for its tidier growth habit. It can form attractive mounded clumps, making it a favorite choice for borders, cottage gardens, and pollinator gardens. Deadheading spent blooms can encourage repeat flowering, so with a little upkeep, catmint can keep your yard colorful for much of the summer.
Which One Is More Potent for Cats?
The key factor that sets catnip and catmint apart for our feline friends is the level of nepetalactone. Catnip reliably has more, which translates to a stronger effect on most cats. If you’re specifically interested in growing a plant to delight your cat, you really can’t beat the classic catnip. It’s easy to sow from seed, not too fussy about soil, and tolerates both heat and moderate drought once established. The biggest challenge for catnip growers is often keeping the neighborhood cats from destroying it in their zeal. Some cat owners erect small fences or tomato cages around catnip to keep the plants from getting flattened by rolling felines.
On the other hand, if you’re drawn to the idea of having a plant that’s moderately appealing to cats but also visually striking, catmint is a superb choice. Even if your cat doesn’t react strongly, you’ll still enjoy the plant’s ornamental qualities—and so will bees and butterflies. It’s common to see gardeners plant drifts of catmint alongside roses or other flowering shrubs to soften edges and create a romantic, cottage-garden vibe.
Growing Tips and Care
Both catnip and catmint appreciate full sun, though they can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates. They do best in well-draining soil, so if you have heavy clay, mix in some compost or other organic matter to improve drainage. While they’re not water hogs, you’ll want to keep them moderately watered until they’re established, after which they’re fairly drought-tolerant.
Propagation can be done by seed (particularly easy with catnip), but many gardeners prefer to buy small nursery plants of catmint to ensure they’re getting a particular variety with the desired flower color or growth habit. You can also propagate either plant by taking stem cuttings or dividing mature clumps in spring or fall. Once you have a healthy, established plant, you can often share cuttings with friends or expand your own plantings in different parts of the yard.
Pests and diseases tend to be minimal. Aphids and spider mites occasionally show up, but a strong spray of water or a little insecticidal soap usually keeps infestations under control. In humid climates, keep an eye out for powdery mildew; proper spacing and avoiding overhead watering can help.
If you plan on harvesting catnip for your cat (or for herbal tea), the best time to pick the leaves is just before the plant flowers. At that stage, the concentration of essential oils in the foliage is at its peak. Bundle the stems, hang them upside down in a dry, shady spot, and let them air-dry. Then crumble the dried leaves into a sealable container or jar, and you’ll have your own stash of homemade catnip ready for your kitty’s toys, treats, or just a sprinkle on the floor for fun.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, choosing between catnip and catmint boils down to your priorities. If your number-one goal is to give your cat that signature “catnip high,” then Nepeta cataria is the clear frontrunner. It’s specifically renowned for its effect on felines, and it’s easy to grow for that purpose. If, however, you’re more interested in ornamental value and a long-blooming, pollinator-friendly plant, catmint (Nepeta x faassenii or another hybrid) is hard to beat. Its neat growth habit, lovely lavender-blue flowers, and subtle fragrance make it a standout in the garden—even without the full feline frenzy.
