Catmint is indeed a member of the lavender family. It belongs to the family Lamiaceae, which is commonly known as the mint family. This family includes a wide range of aromatic plants, including lavender, rosemary, thyme, bee balm, and giant hyssop.
Catmint, also known as Nepeta cataria, is an herbaceous perennial that is native to Europe and parts of Asia. It is a hardy plant that is known for its attractive foliage and fragrant flowers. The leaves of catmint are gray-green in color and have a slightly fuzzy texture, similar to other members of the mint family.
One of the reasons catmint is often associated with lavender is because they share some similarities in terms of appearance and fragrance. Both plants have small, tubular flowers that are arranged in spikes, and they are known for their pleasant aroma. However, it is important to note that the fragrance of catmint is slightly different from lavender. Catmint has a strong, minty scent that is often described as being similar to catnip, which is another member of the mint family.
In terms of growing conditions, catmint and lavender have similar requirements. They both prefer full sun and well-drained soil. They are also both drought-tolerant once established, making them suitable for xeriscaping or water-wise gardening. Both plants can be used in borders, herb gardens, or as ornamental additions to the landscape.
Catmint and lavender also attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, which makes them beneficial for supporting local ecosystems. Their flowers provide a source of nectar and pollen, helping to sustain populations of important pollinators.
In my personal experience, I have found that catmint and lavender can complement each other beautifully in a garden. The combination of their aromatic foliage and vibrant flowers can create a visually appealing and fragrant landscape. Furthermore, the fact that they are both members of the mint family means that they have similar cultural requirements, making it easier to care for them together.
To summarize, catmint is indeed a member of the lavender family. It belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae) and shares some similarities in terms of appearance and fragrance with lavender. Both plants are attractive and aromatic additions to the garden, and they can be grown together to create a visually appealing and fragrant landscape.
