Many gardeners enjoy the company of cats in their gardens, and I’m no exception. My cat, Mr. Leon, is not only great at keeping pests like moles in check but also seems to deter larger animals like deer. To show appreciation for his help, I grow several plants that both he and other cats love.
The five plants listed below are fantastic for your garden, offering not only joy for your feline companions but also other benefits like attracting pollinators and boosting your garden’s overall biodiversity. While catnip and valerian are easy to grow and widely adapted, the others may require more care depending on your climate.
1. Catnip (Nepeta cataria)
Catnip is the most famous plant for cats. Around 80% of cats react to catnip, which contains a compound called nepetalactone that induces a temporary euphoric state. After 10-15 minutes, cats lose interest but will often return for another round later. As a hardy perennial, catnip produces pink flower clusters that bloom throughout summer. These flowers attract bees, tiny parasitic wasps, and other beneficial insects, making catnip a great addition to any garden, even for those without cats. Dried catnip, when stored properly in a cool, dry place, retains its psychoactive effects for several months. Regularly cutting back old flowers helps promote continuous blooming and supports pollinator activity.
2. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)
Valerian, sometimes called garden heliotrope, has a delightful vanilla fragrance that fills the garden in early summer. Cats love valerian roots, which contain actinidine, a compound that stimulates them in a manner similar to catnip. However, valerian can be invasive, so it’s important to manage its reseeding by trimming back flowers regularly. While the roots need to be dried outdoors to avoid a sour odor, they can be hung in a high location to keep cats from accessing them. Dried valerian roots can be stored in airtight containers for later use.
3. Cat Thyme (Teucrium marum)
Though it’s called cat thyme, this plant is actually a type of germander. It’s a fragrant herb that thrives in fertile soil, full sun, and well-drained conditions. Cat thyme can grow up to two feet tall but may need protection from cats, either through a wire cage or by placing it in a hanging basket. In colder climates, where winter temperatures drop below 10°F (-12°C), it’s best to grow cat thyme in a container so you can bring it indoors for the winter.
4. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)
Lemongrass, a tropical plant, attracts cats, though consuming too much can lead to an upset stomach. In summer, lemongrass can be placed in a sunny spot to grow until fall, after which it should be protected from freezing temperatures. Some gardeners attempt to bring lemongrass indoors for the winter, but this can be tricky since it doesn’t tolerate cold soil well. For those in warmer climates, lemongrass can be a hardy perennial, providing both culinary and feline enjoyment.
5. Cat Grass (Dactylis glomerata)
Cat grass, also known as orchard grass, is another popular plant that cats love to nibble on. Growing cat grass is easy—simply plant seeds in a shallow tray and place it in a sunny spot or beneath fluorescent lights. Once the grass reaches about 3 inches in height, your cat can enjoy it. Other grains like wheat, oats, and rye can also be used as cat grass, giving cats a healthy, safe option for chewing.
Protecting Your Plants from Cats
Some plants, like cat thyme and lemongrass, may be vulnerable to your cat’s enthusiasm. In such cases, protecting the plants with a wire cage or hanging baskets may be necessary. Interestingly, cats often wait for a sprig of catnip to be crushed before showing interest. As for valerian, the part that cats are most attracted to—the root—is safely underground, so the plant is immune to typical feline “damage.”
By choosing a few of these plants, you can create a cat-friendly garden that not only keeps your feline companions entertained but also enriches your garden with beauty and ecological benefits. Happy gardening!