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Usually revered for its delicious, anti-oxidant rich fruit. The mineral rich leaves are a valuable herbal medicine as well. Planted about 2 to 3 feet apart the plants will send up numerous suckers which are excellent to harvest for drying while the mature plant is capable of producing copious amounts of delicious berries in the spring and again in Fall in milder climates, which are delicious fresh, frozen, canned as jam or mixed with other fruits!! The leaves were used primarily as a tea for mouth ulcers, sore throat, as an astringent for loose stools, and as a tonic taken specifically during pregnancy, but also highly valued as a mineral rich ally for men and women at any life stage. Prefers a good loam soil with decent drainage, reasonable fertility and some kind of trellis or support, as they can grow 4 feet in a season in ideal conditions. Prefers sun to partial sun. Partial sun in extremely hot climates. Perennial. Hardy to zone 4.
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This unusual and decorative plant is native to the wetlands and prairies of the southern United States. The fresh root was pounded and used by Native Americans as a poultice for snake bites and toothaches. It likes full sun and moist soil. Hardy to zone 9.
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unavailable until May 2012 Well known in South America for its medicinal virtues, it is sometimes ritually brewed with trichocereous pachanoi . . In Ecuador, it is being cultivated for scopolamine.The flowers are 8 to 10 inches long with brilliant orange/red at the mouth and yellow veins fading to yellow at the base. Very beautiful tropical perennial. Hardy to zone 10.
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Originally native to Europe, Western Asia and Northwest Africa, this common plant is also a highly effective medicinal herb which we want to make readily available to flourish in your herb garden. The entire plant is beneficial and is commonly planted as a nitrogen fixing green manure crop, as it enriches your soil for all of your plants and the deep roots are great for breaking up compacted soils. The blossoms are sweet magenta/light pink pom-pom's, which are quite lovely and much adored by bees of all kinds. The red clover blossoms have been traditionally used for bronchitis, whooping cough, and has long been known as a highly effective blood cleanser for detoxification. Red clover was also historically used as a cancer remedy both topically for tumors and internally and as a primary ingredient in the Hoxsey Formula and the larger version of the Essiac formula. Easy to grow perennial to about 2 feet tall quite drought tolerant once established. Hardy to zone 2.
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This unusual cultivar of plantain forms a rosette of really stunning, large, reddish maroon leaves. The color seems more pronounced in full sun locations and the leaves contain the same medicinal qualities of other plantain varieties. Great for topical application to insect stings, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory and incredibly soothing for irritated skin. A favorite ingredient for a salve or ointment. Self sows readily. Hardy to zone 5.
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Yin-chen. This useful artemesia is found naturalized throughout North Africa, tropical Asia and most of Europe. It has been used extensively in Chinese Medicine to remove damp-heat, treat jaundice, hepatitis and gallbladder inflammation and is an effective anti-bacterial treatment for several strains of Staph and strep.The entire aerial parts of the plant are used.The greenish/silvery leaves are highly fragrant and are a lovely contrast with the richly colored stems. Requires full sun and a sandy or well drained soil. Biennial. Hardy to zone 3.
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Sheng Di Huang. Chinese Foxglove. Virtually unknown in North America, this is one of the most important tonic herbs in Chinese medicine. The fresh or dried roots have been used for over 2,000 years. It has special importance as a remedy for “thirst disease”, associated with diabetes and for hemorrhages and excessive menstruation. Known to lower blood sugar, tone the heart system while showing antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Native to Northern China, this rare variety of foxglove flowers 1 foot high with deep red/purple trumpet shaped blooms. Low growing creeper. Hardy to zone 5.
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Rhodiola rosea has been categorized as an adaptogen by Russian researchers. Studies show improvements in depression and schizophrenia. It also suggests that research in areas such as SAD, fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, to name a few clinical conditions, is warranted. Studies also show Rhodiola's ability to optimize serotonin and dopamine levels which could have a good effect on people who take certain drugs for Parkinson's disease. It is also said to be a reliable weight loss aid. Native to high mountainous regions throughout Europe and Asia. The best type of soil is sandy or brown forest soil, rich in humus, on the limey side. Plants usually reach their maximum height in the third year after planting. Zones 3 to 8.
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This is the best plant substitute for ambergris (from sperm whales) and is important in perfume manufacture. It is an aromatic stimulant and expectorant herb that controls bleeding and has antibiotic effects. Beautiful flowers bloom most of the summer. Perennial. Hardy to zone 7.
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A flowering shrub originating from East Asia with it's name coming from the Valley of Sharon in Palestine, as mentioned in the Bible. A hardy and long lived shrub which can grow from 6 to 12 feet and is eventually covered in 4 inch wide pinkish/purple blooms, which are very attractive to beneficial insects and butterflies. Medicinally, the leaves and flowers make a soothing tea, which is high in anti-oxidants. The root bark has been used in TCM as an antifungal remedy, and for diahrrea. The essential oil has numerous properties including anti-bacterial, anti-viral and helps with cell regeneration. Widely tolerant of most soils. The Rose of Sharon needs full sun and minimal water once established. It is an easy to grow shrub that brings a lot long lasting color to the herb-scape. Hardy. Perennial Shrub.
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Traditional use: It is one of the most fragrant herbs commonly used for headaches, indigestion and to stimulate the nervous system and increase circulation. Rosemary helps improve memory and the strong scent lifts the spirit. It also has been used as an excellent hair rinse or hair oil. For culinary use it is delicious with potatoes and other savory dishes. Great addition to any tea blend. No herb garden can be complete without a rosemary plant. Excellent grown in containers and prefers well drained site with full sun. Hardiness varies by variety. Most are hardy to zone 7.
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Compact dwarf variety, well suited for container gardens. Stems are short and tightly packed with leaves. Excellent flavor. I hate to use this term, but it is a very "cute" plant.
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An unusual Rosemary cultivar with whorls of leaves surrounding the stems, which resemble a fox's tail!! Very pretty in hanging baskets and a great choice for a striking container herb or rockery centerpiece. Can reach 3 feet in height. Drought tolerant, sun loving. Perennial. To Zone 8.
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Rosemary "Gregori ". This beautiful and hardy selection has been cultivated for generations by Italian residents of San Francisco. Found thriving on a remote homestead in Northern California where temperatures can dip into the low teens, this fantastic variety has prospered, becoming a large shrub covered with vivid blue flowers in Spring and a rich green foliage year round. Excellent variety for culinary and medicinal use. Highly recommended. Perennial. Hardy to zone 10.
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A lovely creeping form for use in rock gardens. It also looks wonderful in hanging baskets. Zone 7.
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This is a beautiful creeping Rosemary with a broader foliage than normal, for the species. Zone 7.
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This plant has short thick leaves of dark shiny green. A very strong columnar growth habit. One of my personal favorites, with vibrant blue flowers. Zone 7.
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Rue was once called the "Herb of Grace" and was included along with garlic in the "Vinegar of the Four Thieves" during the plague. Rue was once an officially recognized treatment for hypertension, diabetes, and allergic reactions. It's primary reputation is that of an anti-spasmodic to smooth muscles. It is still a popular folk medicine in countries like Mexico, Lebanon, Iran, India and China. In traditional Chinese medicine, the leaves are applied to reduce inflammation from snakebites, insect bites, strain, and sprains. Used after Arnica has been tried. Not to be used during pregnancy, as it is uterine stimulant. It can cause contact dermatitis after handling the fresh plant. Hardy to zone 4.
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Temporarily out of stock for 2011 Rare aromatic Central Asian species of rue. A hardy perennial with striking blue/green foliage. The ancient Druids used to plant a Rue plant next to their homes as protection. Hardy to zone 4.
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Low creeping herb with glossy little leaves great for rock gardens between stepping stones. Used medicinally for urinary trouble. Helps to relieve kidney and bladder pain. This sweet little plant forms a dense mat of foliage and withstands heat and drought really well. An herb that more people should discover. Perennial. Hardy to zone 6.
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Cultivated in China and Tibet for medicinal use, Safflower is grown all over the world in widely varying climates. The Chinese pinyin translates to Red Flower an apt description for these flowers which retain their bright orange-red color even when dried. Also well known for its oil-rich seeds, and as a dye plant. Traditionally, Chinese medicine uses safflower to invigorate the blood and aid in delayed menses, or other conditions requiring increased blood flow. Contraindicated for pregnancy and for people using blood thinners. Plants can reach 3 to 4 feet in a season in rich soil and will branch with multiple thistle like bright reddish-orange blooms in mid-summer. Annual. Hardy to Zone 10.
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Big sage Brush, High Desert Sage. This shrubby member of the artemesia family has been used in ceremony by Native peoples for generations. Sage brush can be found from British Columbia, south into Mexico in the high desert and dry plains areas where it thrives. The smell of a sage covered hillside after a spring rain is an indescribable pleasure for those of us who have been blessed to live amongst this plant. Historically, Sage Brush has been used to treat rheumatism, as an antiseptic, a digestive, a de-wormer, as an eye wash, for sore throats, and respiratory conditions. Externally, the plant was used as a liniment for joint pain, a hair rinse for dandruff and hair loss, an insect repellant, and to disinfect a room. The fibrous bark was woven into baskets and mats and used as insulation in clothing while the inner bark was used to make paper. In ritual, Sage has been used to purify and cleanse an area by burning it as an incense or rubbing the leaves on the skin . The sage sticks were excellent for fire starting by friction and make great fire wood. When planted in a rock garden with full sun and excellent drainage, Sagebrush can be a beautiful garden specimen with its twisted trunk and rounded shrubby form it can reach up to 7 feet in height. Extremely drought tolerant once established and even deer do not bother this plant. Hardy perennial to zone 4.
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Himalayan Sage. A vigorous sage variety originating from the mountains of Kashmir. Forms a rosette of wide green leaves and 2 foot high flower spikes with pretty whorls of bright blue flowers. Used traditionally as an astringent tea and poultice in Kashmir. Very pretty addition to the sage garden. Tolerant of varying soil tyes, but requires good drainage. Hardy to zone 7.
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This hardy sage has the bluest of blue flowers. The grayish/green foliage forms a small mound sending up dense flower spikes as tall as 5 feet. Native to the Central and Southwestern states, it has a strong camphorous smell to the leaves. The plant is drought hardy and tolerant of a variety of soil conditions. Perennial. Hardy to zone 5.
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A lovely plant with pretty, round, gray/green silvery foliage and a robust low growth habit. It can be used like a garden sage. In the kitchen as a savory seasoning and as a medicinal tea for colds and flu. Very pretty selection. Perennial. Hardy to zone 5.
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Another California Native. This stately sage grows into a substantial shrub up to 10 feet wide. The leaves are aromatic, deep green and textured. It blooms in late winter. Perennial. Hardy to zone 8.
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I love this plant! Beautiful California Native. Tall blue flower spikes with a spicy fragrance. Much loved by butterflies and humming birds. The flower spikes make nice dried flowers. Perennial. Hardy to zone 8.
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Hardy and beautiful gray/green leaves with light purple blooms much loved by monarch butterflies and numerous other pollinators. This Native Sage can be found from mid-California shrub steppe land all the way down through Baja's Chaparral country. Very drought resilient once established. This long lived species can reach 6 feet in height and up to 8 feet in moist conditions. Less fussy than many salvias. The California Purple Sage can handle varying soil types and is definitely a worthwhile addition to any Sage Collector's Garden. The leaves make a strong astringent tea, always helpful for respiratory complaints. The seeds are relished by quail and other smaller birds. Full Sun. Hardy. Perennial. Zone 7.
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This sage is used extensively in perfumes as a fixative and fragrance. Clary is the scent of "Euphoria". The flowers and leaves used as a tea were said to improve eyesight and or clairvoyance, depending on how you interpret the folklore. Harvested in the evening or early morning hours for the highest essential oil content. Biennial. Large, green textured leaves and a showy stalk of purple/blue and white blooms that are incredibly beautiful when examined closely. Make this a treasured plant in the herb garden. Easy to grow and more tolerant of wet sites and heavy soil than most plants. Hardy to zone 4.
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Dan Shen. A most important herb in Chinese medicine. Traditionally used to stabilize the heart, calm the nerves and to lighten stagnant blood. The roots are effective against angina pectoris and phlebitis. Reduces blood pressure, improves circulation by dilating the blood vessels and reduces blood cholesterol. Useful for palpitations, irritability and insomnia. The plant forms a pretty rosette and sends up a spike of blue flowers. The roots are a distinctive bright red and are dug in the Fall. Perennial. Hardy to zone 9.
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This plant is currently not available. Hopefully, we will have it later in the season. The sacred diviner 's sage is probably one of the worlds rarest cultivated plants. It is not found growing in the wild. It was used by the Mazatec Indians for divination purposes producing telepathic and clairvoyant insights. Psychotropic effects from the compounds called salvinorins are considered similar to mescaline. Internal use of this herb should be treated with great respect. Requires a moist humid growing environment, which stays above freezing. Diviners Sage likes part shade and will burn in direct sun. They also like a rich, fertile soil and do very well in containers. The mature plant can reach 10 feet and quite a girth as well. Cannot handle frost. Hardy to zone 11.
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This is a dwarf version of the standard variety. Great for borders, as it doesn't get very large. Has the same medicinal and culinary properties great for container gardens. Perennial. Hardy to zone 5.
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This selection of regular garden sage is higher in essential oil content making it more desirable for medicinal use. Sage has been used as both a mouthwash and a gargle to treat mouth and throat infections. It is a strong astringent, anti- bacterial and anti-fungal. Modern research now reflects the ancient world's association of sage with women's health and fertility. It has been used to treat digestive problems and diarrhea and is a great help in drying up milk during weaning. Chinese women use sage hair rinse to avoid having their hair turn gray and it is a great seasoning for poultry and soups in the kitchen. This variety is very pretty with velvety leaves and showy purple flowers. Perennial. Hardy to zone 5.
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Another color variant of the common garden sage, this golden variegated variety is beautiful planted amongst the purple and tri-colored sages. Can be used for culinary purposes and as a tea, but primarily enjoyed for its unusual, contrasting colored leaves. Lavender/purple blooms. Grows to 2 feet in height. Prefers full sun. Hardy to Zone 5.
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Lavender scented Sage, also referred to as Spanish Sage. The oil is harvested and distilled commercially. Studies confirm that it is effective for lowering blood sugar without affecting insulin levels. Perennial. Hardy to zone 8.
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Cancer Weed. A plant with Dandelion like leaves. An American folk remedy for cancer. Native Americans used the roots for sores and the teas have been used for colds, coughs, and nervous conditions. Pretty purple/blue flowers bloom mid-summer. Perennial. Hardy to zone 6.
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Lance shaped gray green leaves form a large mound. The flowers are a deep velvety purple. Very drought hardy plant with great bloom in Spring and Fall. Perennial. Hardy to zone 8.
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Traditionally used in cooking throughout the Mediterranean. Used medicinally for high blood pressure, respiratory problems, and digestion. A beautiful plant with 3 foot stalks bearing bold pink flowers and gray/green fuzzy foliage. Very pretty sage variety. Perennial. Hardy to zone 7.
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A stunning plant which blooms in the Fall. The plants can reach 3 feet in height and width and are covered in scarlet tubular blooms. Much loved by hummingbirds. The blooms have an intoxicating pineapple fragrance. May die back completely in winter, but will comeback from the roots. Perennial. Hardy to zone 8.
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This Salvia features deep purple foliage that looks lovely next to a silvery leaf sage.
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Herbaceous perennial sage from China commonly found in the Gansu Province as well as Yunan. This is a beautiful sage with the same medicinal attributes as regular Dan Shen or Red Sage. Gansu Red Sage also has bright, reddish colored roots and blooms to 2 feet with very attractive, bluish purple flowers in spring. Gansu Dan Shen inhibits vascular constriction making it an important herb in preventing stroke and is useful for all issues affecting the circulatory system. As a lover of salvias, this one is really stunning both as a rosette and in bloom. Prefers full sun. Perennial. Hardy to Zone 4.
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Beautiful annual sage with profuse bright scarlet blooms, which hummingbirds and butterflies love. Will over-winter in mild coastal areas and southern states. Although this is an annual in most areas, it is so vibrant in bloom that I wanted to offer it. Great as a border. Not hardy. Zone 11.
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Large light green, silvery, velvet leaves form a striking rosette, especially when dew or water droplets sit on them. The second year branched, pink flowering stems bloom in early summer. A sweet edible flower. Perennial. Hardy zone 5.
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Sage flowering to 2 feet with whorled spikes of blue flowers. Leaves are very aromatic. The young leaves are traditionally used for cooking and the seeds are said to improve eyesight. Perennial. Hardy to zone 5.
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Traditionally, this is the most valued and revered of all the sages, burned ceremonially to cleanse the spirit and welcome positive thoughts. A California native, the silvery green foliage is very distinctive, growing into quite a shrub with spikes of lavender pink blooms. The resin rich leaves can be dried and burned as an incense. Very drought tolerant and requires excellent drainage and a sunny exposure. Herbaceous perennial. Hardy to zone 7.
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Little known sage with attractive heart shaped leaves flowering at 1 to 2 feet with vibrant purple/blue flowers. Makes a pleasant tea for all respiratory conditions. Very attractive plants that deserves more attention. Medicinally used like Clary sage. Perennial. Hardy to zone 5.
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This plant has leaves that are variegated in cream, purple and green. A special variety.
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Traditionally, the Spring harvested root bark of Sassafras was used in the manufacture of root beer. It was also a folk remedy for cleansing the blood and treating digestive problems, colds, fevers, high blood pressure, and rheumatism. Due to possible liver and kidney toxicity it has fallen into disfavor. A delightful small tree. Cold hardy to zone 5.
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This thorny, deciduous, nitrogen fixing shrub is native to temperate Europe and Asia. The plant can thrive in maritime or inland climates and is tolerant of a wide range of soil types. Sea buckthorn has been receiving a lot of attention for its berries, which produce a nutritionally packed juice high in vitamin C, amino acids and loaded with anti-oxidants. The freshly pressed juice has been used as a tonic for exhaustion, as a cold remedy and has been touted as a cancer preventative in recent studies. Externally, the juice and the oil from the fruit are used in cosmetics, for various skin disorders and as a natural sun block. The medicinal oil from the fruit has been used for excema, for burns, for radiation injury and taken internally for intestinal problems. The plants are easy to grow and quite drought hardy once established. They can eventually reach 30 feet and make a great screen or hedge. Male and female plants are required for fruit production; 1 male for every 8 females. Ee are offering unsexed seedling plants, best to plant more than one. Hardy perennial to zone 4.
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Zi Su Ye. Another well loved plant from the Orient. The pungent and aromatic tea of the dried herb is used for treating fever, headache, nasal congestion and cough. It has antiseptic properties. It also helps alleviate seafood poisoning. Commonly used as a flavoring in Japan and Korea for Kimchi, a well loved fermented cabbage condiment. Deep burgundy leaves are very pretty. Annual.
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This plant is a great medicinal for the landscape. The leaves form a perfect rosette. The leaves are silvery white with thick fuzz. The flowers, by contrast are bright yellow. The plant has multiple stalks. Very beautiful and drought tolerant. Plant in full sun. Hardy to zone 4.
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Native from the Sierras, north into Canada. Strongly aromatic. Great for smudgesticks. Traditionally used by the native people of the inter-mountain west as a tonic herb and herb for the skin. Hardy perennial shrub. Hardy to zone 3.
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Traditional use:A well loved nervine which is a good sedative for insomnia, restlessness, anxiety, nerve pain and tremors.This plant has been shown to be an effective remedy for headaches and neuralgia. It needs rich soil, partial shade and plenty of water to thrive. Forms a mat of foliage with delicate blue flowers. Hardy to zone 3.
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(Ban-Zhi-lan, Half Branch Lotus, Hanshiren). This low growing herbaceous perennial self sows readily creating a compact mound with bright blue flowers and lush green foliage. Originating from China's Yunan Province, Barbat Skullcap is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for clearing excess heat, strengthening the blood, eliminating toxins, and as an anti-inflammatory. It has been traditionally used for cirrhosis of the liver, various cancers and hepatitis. Externally, Ban Zhi Lan has been effective for swelling, trauma, mastitis, abscesses, and poisonous bites. All aerial parts of the plant are used medicinally. An easy plant to grow it prefers a shady spot and ample moisture. A sweet addition to your Chinese medicinal garden. Hardy to zone 7.
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Huang qin. Chinese medicinal prescription for fevers, colds, hypertension, insomnia, headaches, hepatitis, diphtheria, shingles and other ailments. Many of it's uses are now supported by clinical studies. Used in China for thousands of years. Stunning deep blue flowers on a small shrub-like plant.This is a fantastic plant for the herbal landscape. Striking as a mass planting or hedge. Perennial. Hardy to zone 4.
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Perennial tree. Native to North America. The fresh inner bark makes a good survival food. Native Americans used this bark in the treatment of hemorrhoids and tumors. Well known for its soothing effect on the digestive tract due to its mucilaginous nature. The population of Slippery Elm Trees is dwindling due to Dutch Elm Disease and over-harvesting for the herbal industry. It is an act of conservation to plant these graceful trees in our herb gardens. Hardy to zone 4.
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A graceful woodland lilly with sweet scented cream flowers. The powdered root is used for swelling, bruising and inflammation. American Indians used the root for lung problems, upset stomach, arthritis and rheumatism. Native to a woodland setting and requires a shady location. Hardy to zone 5.
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This low creeping herb with pale blue flowers is native to England, Ireland and Scotland. An Infusion is useful for coughs and as a lotion. It is effective on skin eruptions and slow healing wounds. Hardy to zone 3.
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Spikenard has an adaptogenic effect like ginseng, toning the entire system against stress and particularly strengthening for the respiratory, digestive and reproductive systems. Spikenard is particularly indicated for chronic weakness in the pulmonary region and makes a good soothing expectorant syrup or tincture for coughs and bronchitis. The Native people used Spikenard for pregnancy as a blood builder and digestive tonic. Native to California, it tends to grow on the banks of rushing creeks in fairly deep shade. Needs a moist location with ample shade and well drained soil. Becomes a large shrub to 10 feet. Hardy to zone 4.
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Toothache Plant. This annual herb has gained notoriety as an excellent immune stimulant at the beginning stages of both viral and bacterial infections. Effective for ear infections, cold sores, yeast infections and various dental problems. Also shows a strong anti-fungal effect and helps to rid the body of blood parasites, such as malaria and possibly Lyme Disease. This herb is not for daily use. Excellent when used interchangeably with Echinacea. The plant is very pretty, forming a spreading mat of shiny green leaves with reddish tinges and sending up masses of conical yellow gold and red flowers with no petals, which are harvested throughout the summer. Chewing on a fresh or dried flower can numb the mouth in short order. A worthwhile addition to any herb garden and very productive in a garden setting. Enjoys a fertile soil, full sun and plenty of moisture. Annual. Not hardy. Zone 11
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Yellow Dotted Mint. Originating from the southern and Eastern US, this unusual monarda can grow to 4 feet tall with inch long yellow blooms spotted with purple. The aerial parts are strongly aromatic with a spicy fragrance. Makes a nice addition to tea blends and the dried seed heads can be used in arrangements. Hardy perennial, which is very attractive to beneficial insects, bees and butterflies. Easy to grow and thrives in good garden soil. Prefers full to part sun. Hardy to zone 7.
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Traditional use: The brilliant red oil has been used as a deep penetrating analgesic to damaged nerves and muscle tissue making it a great remedy for any kind of sports injury. The tincture, used over a period of time, is an effective anti-depressant. Hypericin has known anti-viral properties and is now being investigated as a possible treatment against HIV and has also proven helpful to MS. St Johnswort is a hardy, drought tolerant plant which has naturalized throughout much of the West. Considered a noxious weed in California, I consider this herb one of the most valuable First Aid remedies for the home herbalist. Grows readily in a well drained garden setting. The prolific small yellow flowers on 2 foot stems bloom at the beginning of summer. All aerial parts of the plants are medicinal. Perennial. Hardy to zone 3. Not for sale to CA, CO, MT, SD, WA states
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This species of the common larkspur was originally found in parts of Asia and southern Europe. The seed was commonly used as an external wash by the Greeks, Romans and on through the Middle Ages for various skin parasites. The plant and seeds are considered poisonous and should not be used internally, although low doses were used historically for pain relief and to induce vomiting. Today, it is considered toxic for ingestion. The plants have finely lobed leaves and bloom with pretty spikes of purple. Prefers a partly sunny location and plenty of moisture. Annual in cold areas, otherwise biennial to Zone 8.
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Native to Paraguay. A remarkable sugar substitute, Stevia's flavor is stable when cooked. You can use it in jams, canned fruits, cakes and cookies. Your own home grown will taste much better than store bought. Stevia is fast growing. It thrives in full sun and well drained soil. Pinch off the flowers as you would with basil. If Stevia is allowed to flower, they droop and become dormant. Some studies have shown that it contains substances that inhibit tooth decay, increase mental alertness, decrease fatigue, improve digestion, regulates blood pressure, and is safe for diabetics. However it has not been approved by the FDA. Excellent sugar substitute for diabetics. My children love to nibble the leaves. Stevia is a tender perennial. Hardy to zone 9.
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Herbaceous perennial noted for its sting when stumbled upon. Nettles are incredibly rich in micronutrients and minerals. The young leaves are harvested for tea or as a food. I love nettles steamed, sautéed, and made into a vinegar by soaking the leaves. A wonderful medicinal food plant. The tops are also a great addition to your compost pile or use the tea to water your plants. An adaptogenic herb that is a tonic to your whole system. No healing garden should be without nettles. Hardy to Zones 3.
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Traditionally the astringent rhizomes and roots are used internally for
kidney and urinary stones, cystitis, diarrhea, gastroenteritis and
hemorrhoids. Combines well with Joe Pye Weed. Another plant native to
the hardwood forest in the eastern and central US. Stoneroot has
attractive oval leaves and yellow flowers. It prefers a wooded site with
ample shade and moisture. Perennial. Hardy to zone 3.
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This annual reaches to heights of 8 feet and has feathery foliage and reddish stems. Chinese herbalists recommend it to stop wound bleeding and to help new muscle growth (although they warn of possible side effects). It is used by the Chinese Army to prevent malaria. Chinese research has recently isolated an anti-malarial compound, which treats drug resistant strains. Great as a base for wreath making. Strong spicy scent. Not Hardy. Zone 11.
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This is a hardier variety of this popular culinary spice tree. I would still keep this tree in a pot, in a sheltered place for a few years before planting outside in colder climates. Slow growing tree can reach 15-20 feet with glossy dark green leaves. Hardy to zone 6.
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Native to Europe and parts of Asia. The lacey, light green leaves have a fern like appearance with delicate white umbel flowers up to 4 feet in height. The leaves and the root are known for their strong spicy/licorice fragrance, which is thought to be an aphrodisiac. The roots and leaves have beet traditionally used for digestive disorders, as an antiseptic wash, an eye wash, a poultice for wounds, an infusion to induce labor, and the fresh juice mixed with honey as a cough syrup. As a culinary herb, the young leaves and flowers are eaten in salads and also make a great infused vinegar. This useful plant was widely planted for culinary use at one time but now is only occasionally seen in an herb garden. Prefers part shade and a moist location. Will self sow many babies if allowed to go to seed !! A very productive medicinal food plant loved by bees and other Pollinators and easy to grow. Hardy. Perennial. Zone 5.
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Sweet Flag Licorice. Acorus gramineus, Dwarf Sedge, Japanese Sweet Flag, Chinese Sweet Flag, Sekisho {Japanese} Shi Chang Pu {Chinese}. This water loving bog plant is originally from China, Japan and East Asia and can be found growing in shallow wetlands . It has been used for thousands of years in China and Japan both as a food, a flavoring and medicinally. The rhizomes have been used in stir-fries and the licorice flavored leaves used in cooking rice. The highly scented leaves are also used in Thai and SE Asian cuisine. Used in TCM to clear the respiratory system, strengthen digestion and ease pain. Easy to grow, but needs plenty of moisture and full to partial sun. Perennial. Hardy to Zone 6 .
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