While most gardeners grow catnip for the benefit of their feline buddies, said felines have been known to lay down on top of the plant and pretty much destroy it in one fell swoop. Catnip is otherwise a fairly robust perennial, growing two to three feet tall and wide in a single season, and can become somewhat invasive, given the right conditions. This is not surprising, since it is in the same family as mint, with similar square stems and soft fuzzy leaves. Tomato cages or stakes placed around the plant will help stave off overly enthusiastic cats, and planting catnip in pots will keep it contained. Catnip loves the sun and will become drought-tolerant once established.   

To harvest catnip, shear stems down to the ground after flowering. Hang to dry in a cool dark area. Strip off leaves once dry (usually 2 -3 weeks).