Catnip Noseburn

Catnip Noseburn: A Humble Native Forb for Southwestern Gardens

If you’re looking for a flashy showstopper to anchor your garden beds, catnip noseburn (Tragia nepetifolia) probably isn’t your plant. But if you’re interested in supporting native ecosystems and creating authentic Southwestern landscapes, this unassuming little forb deserves a spot on your radar.

What Is Catnip Noseburn?

Catnip noseburn is a native perennial forb that calls the American Southwest home. As a member of the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae), it’s a herbaceous plant that lacks woody stems but returns year after year from its root system. Don’t let the catnip in its name fool you – this plant isn’t related to the catnip that drives your feline friends wild.

The noseburn part of its common name hints at one of its defining characteristics: like many plants in the spurge family, catnip noseburn can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals, so it’s wise to handle it with gloves.

Where Does Catnip Noseburn Grow?

This plant is truly a Southwestern native, naturally occurring in Arizona and New Mexico. Its limited range makes it a perfect choice for gardeners in these states who want to create authentic regional landscapes that reflect their local ecosystem.

Should You Plant Catnip Noseburn?

The decision to include catnip noseburn in your garden depends largely on your gardening goals and location. Here’s what to consider:

Reasons to Plant It:

• Native plant that supports local ecosystems
• Extremely drought-tolerant once established
• Low-maintenance perennial
• Authentic choice for Southwestern native gardens
• Helps preserve regional plant diversity

Potential Drawbacks:

• Limited ornamental appeal with small, inconspicuous flowers
• Can cause skin irritation
• Very limited availability in nurseries
• Only suitable for USDA zones 7-10

Growing Catnip Noseburn Successfully

If you’ve decided to give catnip noseburn a try, you’ll be pleased to know it’s relatively easy to grow – as long as you can mimic its native desert conditions.

Ideal Growing Conditions:

• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Well-draining, sandy or rocky soils
• Water: Drought-tolerant; minimal watering once established
• Climate: Hot, dry climates (USDA zones 7-10)

Planting and Care Tips:

• Plant in spring after the last frost
• Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot
• Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots
• Once established, water only during extended dry periods
• No fertilization needed – too much nutrition can actually harm desert natives
• Wear gloves when handling to avoid skin irritation

Role in Your Garden Design

Catnip noseburn works best in naturalized settings rather than formal garden beds. Consider it for:

• Native plant gardens
• Desert or xeriscape landscapes
• Wildlife habitat restoration projects
• Ground cover in appropriate climates
• Educational gardens showcasing regional flora

The Bottom Line

Catnip noseburn won’t win any beauty contests, but it serves an important role in Southwestern ecosystems. If you’re gardening in Arizona or New Mexico and want to support native plant communities, this humble forb can be a valuable addition to naturalized areas of your landscape. Just remember to source it responsibly and handle it with care.

For gardeners outside its native range or those seeking more ornamental options, consider other native alternatives that are better suited to your specific region and gardening goals.