1. Observe the leaves

Compared with the two, the leaves of Nepeta are relatively small and narrow, while the leaves of Basil are relatively wide. The leaves of Nepeta are relatively smooth, have no obvious wrinkles, and are relatively flat, so they are relatively tall and straight. In contrast, basil leaves have obvious wrinkles and a strong sense of concavity and convexity.

2. Smell and identify the taste

The plant Nepeta has a strong smell and is offensive to the nose. In comparison, the flavor of basil is mild and not as strong as the smell of nepeta. So we can also tell the difference between basil and catnip by smelling it.

3. Distinguish the petiole

The color of the petiole of mature basil is dark purple, and the petiole of basil is very smooth and has no hairs. The petiole of Nepeta is bright green like the leaves, but the petiole of Nepeta is covered with fine, soft hairs. In addition, there are some small white burrs on the petioles of Nepeta. From this we can differentiate between basil and nepeta.

4. Different flowers

The flowers of basil and nepeta are smaller, but the flowers of basil are purple and have a strong smell, which will attract some small insects. Nepeta flowers are white. Basil and Nepeta can be distinguished by the color of their flowers.