Nepetoideae

Nepetoideae is a subfamily within the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is one of the most diverse and economically important subfamilies, containing hundreds of species across many genera. Well-known genera include Mentha (mints), Lavandula (lavenders), Ocimum (basils), Salvia (sages), Thymus (thyme), Origanum (oregano), Nepeta (catmints), and Satureja, among others. This subfamily encompasses a wide range of life forms, from herbaceous perennials to shrubs.

A defining feature of Nepetoideae is the morphology common to many Lamiaceae: opposite, decussate leaves that are often aromatic due to essential oils; square stems; and bilabiate, zygomorphic flowers arranged in inflorescences such as spikes, verticillasters, or heads. The fruit is typically a four-nutlet schizocarp. These floral and chemical traits contribute to the popularity of many members as culinary herbs or sources of essential oils.

Ecology and distribution are global, with species adapted to temperate and subtropical regions. Many Nepetoideae species are cultivated for human use, including culinary herbs and ornamental plants, while others occur in natural ecosystems ranging from grasslands to rocky slopes.

Taxonomically, Nepetoideae is organized into multiple tribes in modern classifications, reflecting substantial diversity and phylogenetic relationships clarified by molecular studies. The subfamily's economic and cultural significance stems from its members’ culinary, medicinal, and horticultural applications.