Nepeta cataria subsp. citriodora Seeds | Lemon Catnip
LATIN NAME: Nepeta cataria subsp. Citriodora
COMMON NAME: Lemon Catnip
Plant Profile
Lemon Catnip (Nepeta cataria subsp. citriodora) is a lemon-scented form of the familiar catnip, a herbaceous perennial of the mint family (Lamiaceae) native to Europe and western Asia. It forms bushy clumps 60-100 cm tall, with grey-green, heart-shaped, toothed leaves and spikes of small white flowers through summer. The foliage carries a distinct citrus note over the classic catnip scent, and the flowers are much visited by bees.
Science & Biotechnology
Research touching on Nepeta cataria subsp. Citriodora ranges from the botany of the Nepeta group to practical horticulture, including seed handling, propagation and the selection of superior forms. Nepeta species are important subjects in research on plant volatiles, glandular trichomes and specialised metabolites. It retains a following among breeders and collectors, which keeps seed stocks in circulation.
Uses & Benefits
Lemon Catnip brings genuine presence to the garden and earns its keep across the growing season. Aromatic leaves are used in herb gardens and for fragrant plantings, while soft foliage and flowering stems can add interest to pollinator-oriented borders. Its lemon character also makes it attractive for educational collections focused on aromatic plants and natural product chemistry. Routine care after establishment is refreshingly light.
Catnip charms cats with nepetalactone and calms people in a gentle traditional tea for restlessness and children’s tummy upsets; it is also a long-blooming, drought-proof bee plant.
Growing from Seed
Starting Lemon Catnip from seed is simple and satisfying. Sow seed shallowly in a loose, well-drained medium and keep surface evenly moist. Transplant young plants after they have formed a stable root system, choosing a sunny site with good drainage and enough space for branching habit to develop. Fill a pot with a light seed compost, sow evenly on the surface, cover thinly and stand it somewhere warm, bright and evenly moist. Grow the youngsters on steadily in pots until well rooted, then move them to their final positions.
Our Take
Lemon Catnip repays a little patience at sowing time with plenty of garden presence later.
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