The flowers are more complex than the other Nepeta flowers – they are bicolored, a lavendar blue overall color exposes a soft white throat as the flower grows.
The leaves are similar to the rest of the Nepeta family – crinkled, grey-green leaves, aromatic when crushed.
The stems are square in section and hairy near the base.
This has given the whole genus the nickname “catnip,” though the one with greater powers is the sister Nepeta cataria.
👩🌾GARDENING TIPS👩🌾:
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- Himalayan Catmint, like other Nepeta species, is perfect for a low-maintenance garden that embraces nature.
- Very hardy, this species enjoys sunlight but dislikes overly dry soils, making it a true mountain dweller.
- Continuous blooming is encouraged by removing spent flowers.
- Make sure your soil is well draining, because while catnip can handle drought and frost – it cannot handle soggy roots!
The Tale:
Its natural habitat consists of rocky slopes and open sunny areas along streams and lakes, at altitudes of up to 3000m.
Why is it called catnip? The nepetalactone contained in some species of the genus Nepeta binds to the olfactory receptors of cats, usually causing temporary euphoria that makes them roll and shudder with pure joy.
Other Names:
Himalayan Catmint
Origin:
Pakistan, Kashmir, north-western India, and Tibet
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