Refers to the plant Nepeta cataria, known for its effect on cats. The Japanese name 犬薄荷 (いぬはっか) is a related term.
See also: イヌハッカ
Cats love catnip.
I planted catmint in the garden.
犬薄荷 is another name for catnip, but チクマハッカ is the more common term.
Katakana spelling is common for this plant name; usually written in kana.
Kanji spelling is rare; the plant name is usually written in kana.
The name チクマハッカ likely derives from 筑摩 (Chikuma, a place name) and 薄荷 (hakka, mint). The exact origin is uncertain.