How to distinguish between basil and nepeta

1. Observe the leaves

Comparing the two, the leaves of Nepeta are smaller and narrower, while the leaves of basil are wider. The leaves of Nepeta are relatively smooth, without obvious wrinkles. They are relatively flat leaves, and therefore appear more upright. In contrast, the wrinkles on basil leaves are more obvious, and the uneven feeling is very strong.

2. Smell and smell

The smell of the plant nepeta is very strong and very pungent. In comparison, the smell of basil is milder and not as pungent as nepeta. Therefore, we can also distinguish basil from nepeta by smelling the two.

3. Identify petioles

The petiole of mature basil is darker in color, purplish, and very smooth without any hair. The petioles of Nepeta are the same light green as the leaves, but they are covered with fine and soft hairs. In addition, there are some small white thorns on the petioles of Nepeta. From this point we can easily distinguish basil from nepeta.

4. Different flowers

The flowers of basil and nepeta are both relatively small, but the flowers of basil are purple and have a stronger smell, which will attract some small insects. The flowers of Nepeta are white. You can tell the difference between basil and nepeta by the color of their flowers.