herb

Ashwagandha, also known as Winter Cherry or Indian Ginseng, is an annual medicinal herb plant from the Nightshade family. It is cultivated heavily in India and is native to parts of the Middle East, the Indian Peninsula, and the Himalayan regions.  Ashwagandha is an annual or short-lived perennial that features elliptical green leaves and small white bell shaped flowers. The flowers grow into lantern like cases, which contain bright red cherries bearing dozens of tiny seeds. The root is ready to harvest 150 to 180 days after planting, just as the berries have formed and the leaves have begun to yellow.  Ashwagandha is widely known for its medicinal properties in Ayurvedic medicine; the root being the most commonly used part. Taken as a tea or in tincture form, it is believed to reduce anxiety and depression, and to help achieve mental clarity and boost the immune system. Studies show that its potential medicinal effects are due to the presence of alkaloids and steroidal lactones within the plant that promote anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-stress, and antioxidant effects. It's a great medicinal plant for any herbalist's garden!  Ashwagandha is an essential herb in our medicinal garden and food forest.  We carefully harvest its roots in the fall by digging up the entire plant and separating the roots from the base of the plant.  We remove the red berries (seed pods) from their lantern casings then sun dry the roots and the seeds separately.

Lemon Bergamot is a culinary and medicinal herb, native to the United States and Mexico that blooms in the late spring and early summer. Its 3-foot stem is covered in dense purple whorls, attracting butterflies, hummingbirds, and herbalists to the garden, while its lemon-scented leaves add a subtle, fresh scent. Bergamot can be grown year-round as a perennial or as an annual in colder climates.

Mentha Requienii is a member of the mint family of plants and commonly referred to as Corsican Mint. It is a very fragrant, hearty and fast-growing perennial that is perfect as a ground cover. It features bright green leaves and the iconic square stem of mints. It is known for having a strong minty-sage aroma, which is why it is frequently used in the culinary capacity for flavoring.  This mint is native to Corsica, Italy and Sardinia, but has been naturalized in similar environments elsewhere.  Corsican Mint is low growing and likes partial shade with moist soil. Drying out the plant between watering will help increase the hardiness of the plant, as well as essential oil production. This results in a stronger and more flavorful herb! 

Unique, Medicinal Herb with a Strong Flavor Common Names: Giâp Cá, Fish Mint, Lizard Tail, Heartleaf, Chameleon PlantFamily: SaururaceaeOrigin: Southeast Asia Giâp Cá (Houttuynia cordata), commonly known as Fish Mint or Lizard Tail, is a perennial herb native to Southeast Asia. This unique herb is known for its strong fishy aroma and is widely used in Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese cuisines, particularly in salads, soups, and as a garnish. It is also prized for its medicinal properties, which have been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments. Giâp Cá is a hardy plant that thrives in wet, shady conditions, making it an ideal addition to herb gardens or as a ground cover in moist areas. Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value Leaves: The heart-shaped leaves of Giâp Cá are dark green with a purple tint and have a distinctive fishy aroma that intensifies when crushed. The leaves are edible and are often used in salads or as a garnish in Southeast Asian cuisine.Flowers: The plant produces small, white flowers that grow in spikes, though it is primarily grown for its foliage.Growth Habit: Giâp Cá grows as a low, spreading herb, reaching up to 1-2 feet in height. It spreads via underground rhizomes and can quickly cover large areas, making it an effective ground cover in moist, shady locations. Culinary and Medicinal Uses Giâp Cá is widely used in Vietnamese and Southeast Asian cuisine. The fresh leaves are often added to salads, spring rolls, or served as a garnish for soups and grilled dishes. The fishy, pungent flavor of the leaves pairs well with strong flavors like garlic, chili, and fermented foods. In Vietnam, Giâp Cá is commonly used as a fresh herb in raw salads or served alongside grilled meats and fish. Medicinally, Giâp Cá has been used in traditional Chinese and Vietnamese medicine for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and diuretic properties. The plant is believed to help detoxify the body, support respiratory health, and treat infections. The leaves can be made into a tea or tincture for medicinal purposes.

Greek Mountain Tea, also known as Ironwort, Mountain Tea, or Shepherd's Tea, is a perennial evergreen herb or small shrub well known for it's fuzzy succulent foliage, fragrant orange bell-shaped flowers, and medicinal properties.  It grows abundantly in Mediterranean regions and is native to Greece.  Prepared as a tea (dried flowers, leaves, stems), it may aid in digestion, strengthen the immune system and suppress colds, sinus congestion, even pain and mild anxiety.

Hardy, Nutritious Leafy Green Common Names: Java Ginseng, Fame Flower, Pink Baby’s Breath, Philippine GinsengFamily: TalinaceaeOrigin: Tropical Americas and Southeast Asia Java Ginseng (Talinum paniculatum) is a fast-growing, hardy plant known for its medicinal uses and nutritional value. Despite its common name, Java Ginseng is not related to true ginseng but is widely used in traditional medicine for its health-boosting properties. This leafy green plant features fleshy, succulent leaves and delicate, pink flowers, making it both an edible and ornamental addition to gardens. The plant is easy to grow and is highly valued for its leaves, which can be consumed fresh in salads or cooked like spinach. Java Ginseng is known to be rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, supporting overall wellness. Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value Leaves: Java Ginseng produces fleshy, succulent leaves that are high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron. The leaves have a slightly tangy, spinach-like flavor and can be eaten fresh in salads or cooked in soups and stir-fries. These leaves are also used in traditional medicine, where they are believed to boost energy, improve immune function, and support general health. Flowers: The plant blooms with clusters of small, pink or magenta flowers on tall, slender stems, adding ornamental value to gardens. These delicate flowers attract pollinators, making Java Ginseng an attractive option for wildlife gardens. Growth Habit: Java Ginseng is a hardy perennial that grows rapidly in warm climates, reaching 2-3 feet tall. Its tolerance for a variety of soil types and minimal care requirements make it an ideal choice for beginner gardeners. Java Ginseng: The Hardy, Nutritious Leafy Green Botanical Name: Talinum paniculatumCommon Names: Java Ginseng, Fame Flower, Pink Baby’s Breath, Philippine GinsengFamily: TalinaceaeOrigin: Tropical Americas and Southeast Asia Java Ginseng (Talinum paniculatum) is a fast-growing, hardy plant known for its medicinal uses and nutritional value. Despite its common name, Java Ginseng is not related to true ginseng but is widely used in traditional medicine for its health-boosting properties. This leafy green plant features fleshy, succulent leaves and delicate, pink flowers, making it both an edible and ornamental addition to gardens. The plant is easy to grow and is highly valued for its leaves, which can be consumed fresh in salads or cooked like spinach. Java Ginseng is known to be rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, supporting overall wellness. Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value Leaves: Java Ginseng produces fleshy, succulent leaves that are high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron. The leaves have a slightly tangy, spinach-like flavor and can be eaten fresh in salads or cooked in soups and stir-fries. These leaves are also used in traditional medicine, where they are believed to boost energy, improve immune function, and support general health.Flowers: The plant blooms with clusters of small, pink or magenta flowers on tall, slender stems, adding ornamental value to gardens. These delicate flowers attract pollinators, making Java Ginseng an attractive option for wildlife gardens.Growth Habit: Java Ginseng is a hardy perennial that grows rapidly in warm climates, reaching 2-3 feet tall. Its tolerance for a variety of soil types and minimal care requirements make it an ideal choice for beginner gardeners. Medicinal and Culinary Uses Java Ginseng is widely used in Southeast Asian cuisine and traditional medicine. Its nutrient-rich leaves are incorporated into salads, soups, and stir-fries, while in folk medicine, it is believed to enhance stamina, lower blood sugar, and aid digestion. The plant is also used in herbal teas and tonics to promote general wellness.

Lemon balm is an aromatic herbaceous perennial or annual, distinguished by its lemony scent. Originating from the Mediterranean and Central Asia, it is now cultivated across the world for culinary, medicinal, and ornamental use. Growing to a height of 24 inches, it boasts wrinkled serrated leaves with a slightly hairy texture and tiny white to yellow/purple flowers blossom in whorled clusters, offering honeybees nectar-rich pollen. Lemon Balm is an exceptional herb that lends its distinct, citrus-like flavour to cuisines from around the world. Its essential oils are also used in aromatherapy for relaxation and rejuvenation, as well as in perfumery and cosmetics. Its medicinal properties have been celebrated for centuries, helping to soothe an upset stomach, aid digestion, and promote restful sleep.

Soothing Herbal Powerhouse with Soft Blooms and Silky Roots Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) is a medicinal herb and flowering perennial treasured for centuries for its soothing, mucilaginous roots and leaves. Native to Europe and Western Asia, this soft, silvery plant is the original source of the sweet we know today—but its true gift lies in its ability to calm inflammation, support digestion, and soothe the respiratory tract. The plant features velvety leaves and pale pink hibiscus-like flowers, loved by pollinators and perfect for herb gardens, cottage borders, and apothecary patches. Its roots, leaves, and flowers are traditionally used in teas, syrups, and salves to ease sore throats, coughs, and skin irritations. Marshmallow grows best in moist, well-draining soil with full to part sun and is particularly suited to medicinal gardens, wetland edges, and temperate food forests. This hardy perennial brings a gentle beauty and powerful healing energy to any space. Why You'll Love It: Supports respiratory, digestive, and skin health naturally Attracts pollinators with soft pink blooms Traditional plant ally in herbalism for soothing inflammation Easy to grow in moist, sunny to partially shaded spots Soft, silvery foliage adds texture and charm to herb gardens

Licorice-Sweet Culinary Herb with Golden Blooms and Healing Power Mexican Tarragon (Tagetes lucida), also known as Mexican Mint Marigold, is a fragrant, golden-flowered herb native to Central America and a beloved culinary and medicinal plant with a bold, anise-like flavor. Often used as a heat-tolerant substitute for French tarragon, this plant thrives in hot, sunny gardens and is prized for its edible leaves and vibrant blooms. Its narrow, glossy green leaves add a licorice-sweet punch to vinegars, herbal teas, sauces, eggs, and fish dishes. The bright yellow marigold-like flowers bloom throughout summer and fall, attracting butterflies, bees, and beneficial insects while adding color and cheer to your herb garden or landscape border. Traditionally used by the Aztecs for rituals, teas, and remedies, Mexican Tarragon also has calming, digestive, and antimicrobial benefits. It’s drought-tolerant, pest-resistant, and easy to grow—making it a hardy, high-value plant for gardeners in warm climates. Why You'll Love It: Delicious heat-tolerant alternative to French tarragon Fragrant edible leaves and bright pollinator-friendly flowers Used in teas, vinegars, traditional medicine, and ritual Drought-tolerant and pest-resistant in sunny gardens Attracts butterflies and bees while blooming all season Growing Tips: Plant in full sun with well-drained soil for best flavor and flowering Pinch young stems regularly to encourage a fuller, bushier plant Harvest leaves in the morning for peak essential oil content Remove spent blooms to prolong flowering season Grows well in containers—perfect for patios and sunny herb spirals

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), native to the Mediterranean region, is a fragrant evergreen herb celebrated for its needle-like leaves and small, pale blue to white flowers. Traditionally used in cooking for its robust, woodsy flavor, Rosemary also holds a place in herbal medicine for its purported memory-enhancing properties. This hardy plant thrives in full sun and well-draining soil and requires minimal watering once established and benefits from occasional pruning to maintain its shape and promote bushy growth. Ideal for garden beds, borders, and containers, Rosemary is both a culinary delight and a beautiful addition to any garden!

Self Heal, commonly known as heal-all or cure-all plant, is a very interesting and important wildflower herb whose young stems and leaves are cultivated for myriad medicinal and culinary purposes.  In traditional herbal medicine, Self Heal is said to assist in general healing of the body. Self Heal grows in a range of light and soil conditions but does really well as a groundcover with light shade.  Self Heal ranges in growth from 6-20 inches.  It spreads from the taproot and cutting back will yield stronger, thicker stems.  Self heal is fairly drought tolerant and low maintenance once it is established.  Flowers provide excellent forage for bees and are loved by pollinators!

Stevia, scientifically known as Stevia rebaudiana, is a remarkable plant highly esteemed for its sweet leaves, which are a natural, zero-calorie alternative to sugar. Originating from South America, stevia has been used for centuries by the Guarani peoples of Brazil and Paraguay, primarily for sweetening beverages and as a herbal remedy. This hardy perennial is easy to grow in well-drained soils and thrives in warm, sunny environments, making it a fantastic addition to your herb garden. Helpful Hint: as a sweetener, 1/4 of ground leaves is equal to 1 tsp of sugar.  Our stevia plants are naturally grown and carefully selected to ensure the highest quality. Each plant comes in a 4-inch biodegradable pot, ready to be transplanted into your garden or container. The leaves can be harvested as soon as they are fully developed, typically within a few months of planting. Enjoy natural sweetness in your beverages and desserts, or dry the leaves to create your own stevia powder. With our robust plants, you can sustainably produce your sweetener year after year.

A tall perennial herb native to Europe and Asia that produces clusters of aromatic pale-pink or white flowers which are great for attracting pollinators. The scent of the flowers is sweet and similar to vanilla. The plant can grow very tall, up to 4 feet and requires a full sun to partial shade. It's important to know that if you're growing Valerian for it's medicinal qualities make sure you grow it in an easy to access part of your garden because the root is what you'll be harvesting. The soil conditions need to be moist, well-drained loamy soil or compost-rich soil.  Valerian root is known to have many medical benefits. It's an excellent remedy for stress, anxiety, or insomnia, and great for healing the nervous and digestive systems. 

Yerba Mate is an evergreen tree in the Holly family (Aquifoliaceae), native to the steamy subtropics of South America. Indigenous people of Paraguay first brewed the dried leaves into a delicious beverage that is high in caffeine, antioxidants, and micronutrients. It is a commonly used beverage in South America, and now it is gaining popularity worldwide as an alternative to coffee that boosts energy, burns fat, and reduces cholesterol. Fragrant white flowers bloom on the tree during the late fall and early winter and develop into bright red ornamental berries in the spring. The thick, leathery leaves can be harvested and dried at any time of the year when the foliage has become full on the tree. It will grow to 50 feet high outdoors and can also be grown as a container plant indoors or outdoors. Yerba Mate will grow in full sun to partial shade in rich, loamy, well-draining soil that is never allowed to dry out. It prefers warm, humid conditions and is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.