As one of the exotic perennials of the flower world, catmint (Nepeta cataria) is very versatile and easy to grow. The dark purple flowers explode in early summer for a spectacular display that can last for quite some time.
There are around 250 species[1] of the genus Nepeta in the Lamiaceae family, native to Asia, Europe, and Africa. Many people tend to confuse catmint with catnip. Although the two are closely linked, catnip is more pungent than catnip but has less ornamental value.