Catnip Lemon (Nepeta cataria var. citrata), also known as Lemon-scented Catnip or Lemon Catmint, is a variety of the Catnip plant, belonging to the Lamiaceae (mint) family. This plant is native to Europe and parts of Asia but has been widely cultivated and naturalised in other regions, including Australia.

Historical Facts:

Catnip has been known and used since ancient times, particularly in Europe, where it was valued for its medicinal properties and its effect on cats.

The Lemon variety, Nepeta cataria var. citrata, is a cultivated variant known for its distinct lemony fragrance, which is a result of higher levels of the compound citral.

Historically, catnip was used in traditional European herbal medicine for its calming effects on humans and its ability to attract and stimulate cats.

Medicinal Uses

Catnip Lemon shares many medicinal properties with regular Catnip but with the added benefit of its pleasant lemon scent:

Calming and Sedative: Like regular catnip, Lemon Catnip can be used to make teas that help with relaxation, anxiety, and insomnia.

Digestive Aid: It has been traditionally used to soothe digestive issues, such as indigestion, gas, and cramps.

Anti-inflammatory: Catnip Lemon has mild anti-inflammatory properties and has been used in poultices to relieve minor skin irritations and insect bites.

Cold and Flu Relief: The plant has been used in herbal remedies to alleviate symptoms of colds, such as coughs and congestion, due to its mild sedative and antispasmodic effects.

How to Grow Catnip Lemon from Seed

Growing Catnip Lemon from seed is relatively straightforward and can add a delightful lemony aroma to your herb garden. Here’s how to do it:

Seed Selection and Preparation:

Seeds can be started indoors or directly sown in the garden.

Sowing:
Timing: In Australia, sow seeds in early spring or late summer when the soil temperature is around 15-20°C.

Soil: Catnip Lemon prefers well-draining soil, with a slightly alkaline to neutral pH (6.5-7.5).

Planting Depth: Sow the seeds on the surface of the soil and press them lightly. Cover them with a very thin layer of soil or just press them into the soil as they need light to germinate.

Spacing: Space the seeds or seedlings about 30-45 cm apart to allow for healthy growth.

Germination:
Temperature: Ideal germination temperature is between 15-20°C.

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Use a fine mist spray to avoid washing away the seeds.

Germination Time: Seeds usually germinate within 7-14 days.

Transplanting (if started indoors):

When seedlings have developed at least two sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted into the garden.

Harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions before transplanting.

Growing Conditions:
Sunlight: Catnip Lemon thrives in full sun to partial shade. Aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.

Watering: Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. The plant is somewhat drought-tolerant once established.

Fertilisation: Apply a light dressing of compost or a balanced organic fertiliser in the spring to support growth.

Maintenance:

Pruning: Regularly prune the plant to encourage bushier growth and to prevent it from becoming leggy.

Pest Management: Catnip Lemon is generally resistant to pests but watch for aphids and spider mites. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.

Harvesting: You can begin harvesting leaves once the plant is well established. Harvest in the morning after the dew has dried for the best flavour.

Flowering:
Catnip Lemon produces small, delicate, lavender or white flowers in late spring to summer, which are attractive to pollinators, particularly bees.

To prolong the growing season, pinch off the flower buds to encourage more leaf production.

By following these steps, you can successfully grow Catnip Lemon in your garden, enjoying its fresh lemon scent, its appeal to cats, and its various medicinal benefits.

Always consult a medical practitioner before embarking on any program. The information on this page is not diagnostic, therefore always consult a herbal practitioner or your GP in order to obtain a diagnosis. Never stop taking prescribed treatment without consulting your GP or a qualified herbal practitioner. Do not take without qualified medical advice.

PICTURE BY Matt Lavin from Bozeman, Montana, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons