Nepeta racemosa Lam.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

Nepeta racemosa, commonly known as dwarf catnip or raceme catnip, has the scientific synonym Nepeta mussinii. It is a species of flowering plant belonging to the mint family Lamiaceae, and is native to the Caucasus, Turkey, and northern Iran.

Size and Growth Habit

This herbaceous perennial grows to 30 cm (12 in) tall and 45 cm (18 in) wide. It has aromatic leaves, and produces violet or lilac-blue flowers during the summer.

Ornamental Cultivation

It is one of several Nepeta species cultivated for use as an ornamental plant. It is especially well-suited for planting at the front of a flower border, or used as groundcover.

Horticultural Awards

Both the species and the cultivar ‘Walker’s Low’ have received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

Effect on Cats

Nepeta species are known for producing a euphoric effect on some domestic cats.

Chemical Properties and Insect Interactions

This effect is thought to be caused by the chemical compound nepetalactone, which also affects certain insects — it repels cockroaches and mosquitoes.