Herb or ‘erb, however you pronounce it, herbs are very useful plants, and are found in most gardens and kitchens all over the world. Herbs have a variety of uses - food, flavouring, medicine, fragrances, cosmetics and I some cases for spiritual care. For most herbs, it’s leaf or flower, we use - either dried or fresh. Herbs can be grown in pots, containers, and gardens, indoors or out. When growing herbs together in one container, select varieties with similar habits, for example chives, mint, chervil and coriander like plenty of water, whereas rosemary, thyme, sage and oregano prefer well-drained soil. Clipping back and regular picking will help control the rampant habit or some herbs, and promote a continuous supply.

72 LISTINGS FOR HERBS

Show in stock items first

aka Lemon verbena

Lemon Verbena. This open and rangy shrub will not win you over with its looks but will wow you with the delicious aromatic fragrance. Likes good drainage, sunlight and tolerant of light frost. Steep leaves in water to make a refreshing drink. Deciduous.

Give this plant a good tidy up every now and then with sharp secateurs - it will respond well. Small sprays of pale lavender flowers appear in summer but it is really the foliage that makes this shrub desirable.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Basil mixed

A mixed selection of highly ornamental form of Sweet Basil which is great for summer salads. Lush foliage with full of flavour and fragrance. Plant in a sunny well drained spot and protect from frost. Pinch back to a new growth point as you harvest the leaves to encourage re-growth. Annual.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Sweet Basil

Where would summer be without Basil to add fragrance and flavour to a multitude of dishes? Large shiny green leaves that taste great fresh - wonderful for Pesto. Leaves can be frozen for future use if you have an over-production. Loves the sun and good drainage. Protect from frost. Annual.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

Thai basil is sturdy and compact, has shiny green, slightly serrated, narrow leaves with a sweet, anise-like scent and hints of licorice, along with a slight spiciness lacking in sweet basil. Thai basil has a purple stem, and like other plants in the mint family, the stem is square. Perennial

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Lemon bee balm

The flowers are very pretty in white or pink with purple dots, growing in typical Bergamot fashion. Young leaves can be used in tea or for any gourmet dish, especially fish, where a strong lemon flavour would add interest. An attractive plant that will attract the attention of bees, as well as people, in any herb garden.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

Cat grass (catgrass) is a name used to describe a number of different types of grass which are popular with cats. It would appear that there are two main species of grass referred to as cat grass. Once the grass is an inch or two long, move to a spot easily accessible to your cat. It is also a good idea to have some growing outdoors in an enclosure if your cat has access to one.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

A useful and attractive perennial with grey/green foliage and pretty sprays of mauve flowers that appear from spring right through to autumn. Useful as an edging for flower beds. Loves a sunny position and a good haircut every now and then. Hardy, evergreen easy to grow if you can keep your cats off it long enough!

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Camomile

Chamomile is one of the most popular herbs in the Western world.Chamomile has been used as a medicine for thousands of years, used to calm frayed nerves, to treat stomach problems, to relieve muscle spasms, and to treat skin conditions and mild infections.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

Traditional ground cover with bright green feathery foliage and erect stems of small, daisy-like flowers. Charmingly scented and magic to walk on. Chamomile Lawn thrive in full sun, but will tolerate dappled shade.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

This variety of Chives is a vigorous grower with good disease resistance. Nice broad leaves that can be chopped up to add to summer salads etc. Will form a good clump in the vege patch or can be grown in a pot. Prefers the sun and good drainage. Perennial.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Garlic Chives

Flat leaves with a mild garlic flavour make these versatile Chives a useful Herb for a variety of dishes. A good substitute for those who find bulb garlic too strong. Plant in a sunny well drained spot. Perennial.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

Comfrey should be termed as a 'super-plant' it can be used as a medicinal herb, tea, vegetable, animal feed and green manure. Tall and wide spreading, it reaches a height of 60 to 90cm. With large, coarse leaves and flowers which are blue or creamy white grow in spikes and bloom all summer. It is easy to grow.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

Highly aromatic Herb that is popular for adding a pungent flavour to Chinese, Thai and Mexican cuisine. This variety is very slow to bolt ( hence the name) and can be grown in a pot or the garden. Likes the sun and fertile soil to do well. Annual.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

This hardy and very aromatic, evergreen perennial has upright growth habit, narrow, long silver leaves and yellow flower clusters. It grows up to 60cm (24") high and spreads to 60cm (24") wide.

The leaves of this great structured plant bear a distinct curry aroma, making it excellent for all kinds of cooking and seasoning.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

Pyrethrum is a great companion plant, used to keep many of the unwanted insects from your beloved plants. Pyrethrins are an aphid alarm pheromone which can be used to repel pest insects from nearby crops. Perennial.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

This culinary herb is particularly popular for adding flavour to fish dishes and pickles. Both the foliage and seeds can be used. The foliage has a mild aniseed flavour. Grow in a sunny spot with nice humus rich soil. Annual.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Fennel

A gourmet bulb Fennel with big white bulbs that are not too fibrous and have a delicious, mild, aniseed flavour. The bulb can be eaten raw or cooked and the foliage can be finely chopped and used as a garnish. Likes the sun and fertile, well drained soil. Perennial.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

Bushy perennial it has fragrant, ferny foliage and composite white flowers with yellow centers.Plant it in full sun, or light shade. Is widely used as a medicinal herb which is known to help reduce headaches and inflammation pain.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Elephant Garlic

This is slow growing and forms a very large bulb. Individual corms have a mild sweet taste (especially when roasted) and are less intense than regular Garlic. Plant in Jun, harvest Dec. Plant no deeper than 2 cloves depth. Feed well balanced NPK fertiliser.

Garlic loves a sunny, well drained spot in fertile soil. Once harvested, around Christmas time, leave to dry in a warm, sunny spot until the leaves wrinkle and turn brownish. Then take the leaves off and store your bulbs whole in a cool airy place until required. NB Elephant Garlic does not store for as long as regular Garlic but once you get the taste of it that shouldn't be a problem. This is a hard necked variety.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Garlic

A culinary soft neck Garlic with a premium flavour. Forms large, firm, white skinned cloves. Companion plant as aphid deterrent. Plant in a sunny, well drained spot with the 'pointy' end up in Jun, harvest Dec. Feed monthly with a general purpose fertiliser, water regularly.

Once you have dug your Garlic up around Christmas time (6 months after planting). Leave to dry in a warm dry spot until the leaves die down. Then break the leaves off and store whole in the pantry until you are ready to use. Home grown fresh Garlic has an exquisite sweet flavour that is hard to beat. Bon appetit.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

Lemon balm loses much of its flavor when dried, so it is a seasonal delight to be enjoyed while the weather is mild and the plant is green. However, enough of the fragrance remains when this herb is dried to make it a delightful addition to potpourri.

Like many other herbs, lemon balm can lose its flavor in cooking, so add it near the end of the cooking process. The fresh lemon fragrance and flavor go nicely with both chicken and fish dishes, as well as fruit and fruit juice drinks. Create your own herbal tea by cutting a few stems of lemon balm (plus any other appealing herbs), putting them in a pitcher, pour boiling water over them, and allow them to steep for about 15 minutes. Enjoy your tea hot or over ice.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Citronella grass

Fragrant swaying grass that will add texture and movement as well as contrast among more compact plants. Used in cooking and for making tea. Ideal container plant or in a border or garden bed.

The oil is antiseptic, antibacterial and antiviral. Also used as an antidepressant, to soothe aches and pains, to relieve stress. If drunk before bed will induce sleep. Effective for headaches and respiratory problems. Pour boiling water over sliced leaves and steep for 5 minutes for Lemongrass tea. Sweeten as desired. Can be dried for tea, potpourri or cooking.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Citronella grass

Tall, densely tufted, aromatic clumping stalks. Foliage is cut before fully mature. The tender white part of the stalk is used for adding to dishes, the remainder can be used for stocks, dried or a cuppa tea. Arching leaves of pale blue green colour to 90cm long. Semi-hardy perennial that goes dormant in winter.

Used in Asian cookery. Pour boiling water over sliced leaves and steep for 5 minutes for Lemongrass tea. Sweeten as desired. Can be dried for tea, potpourri or cooking.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Lovage

This is a tall addition to the garden and often placed at the back of the border. It is a good idea to start a new plant every few years. Lovage prefers a rich soil that retains moisture well. It likes full sun in cool climates or partial shade where summers are very hot.

Leaves and stems used as a savoury flavouring in salads, soups, stews etc, imparting a yeasty/celery flavour.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

Country Cream is a hardy, bushy perennial, which although aromatic and can be used in Italian, Greek, Mexican dishes, is mostly used for ornamental purposes. Loves a sunny spot in rich well drained soil. It forms a dense mat and a small pink flower. Trim back regularly to maintain shape and vigour.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

Sweet Marjoram is a rich, sweet tasting herb, that is used interchangeably with oregano. It has tender leaves and stems, grows well just about anywhere, and is a great kitchen windowsill garden choice. A tender plant. Consider your marjoram to be an annual.

Cut back juicy stems and leaves as they grow. Sweet marjoram will provide you with multiple cuttings in one season. Cut the soft stems and leaves and add at the end of the cooking time. Use a small amount to begin with. Marjoram boasts a more powerful flavor than the same amount of oregano.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Mint Common

There are several forms of Garden Mint, the true variety being of bold, upright growth, with fairly large and broad leaves, pointed and sharply serrated (or toothed) at the edges and of a rich, bright, green colour. Cut back in Autumn for new winter growth.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

A hardy perennial that is the Basil you have when you don’t have any Basil. Spreads easily so container planting may be a good option.

Add late in the cooking as the mint aroma fades quickly. Finely chop leaves and use them in salad dressings, marinades and sauces. Add to salads and vegetables for an exotic flavour. Tastes a lot like Sweet Basil so partners well with similar strong flavoured herbs.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

Best grown in rich, moist soils in full sun to part shade. Adapts to a wide range of soils except dry ones. Large plantings may be sheared after bloom to remove flower spikes and stimulate new vegetative growth. Soil barriers may be used to restrain spread if plants are grown in borders or other areas where spread is unwanted.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

Japanese emperor mint is a wonderful culinary herb, with a delicate flavour that goes particularly well in salads. It has a strong flavour and is very hardy, happily surviving frosts.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

Also known as Vietnamese coriander, Cambodian mint and laksa Leaf this has to be my favourite Asian herb. Native to peninsular South-East Asia this is a perennial herb, which has striking pointed leaves, lime green in colour with dark inner markings. With purple stems the whole plant evokes a wonderfully strong citrus aroma with a taste to match.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

Mentha arvensis is a species of mint with a circumboreal distribution. It is native to the temperate regions of Europe and western and central Asia, east to the Himalaya and eastern Siberia, and North America.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Catmint

A useful and attractive perennial with grey/green foliage and pretty sprays of mauve blue flowers that appear from spring right through to autumn. Useful as an edging for flower beds. Loves a sunny position and a good haircut every now and then. Hardy, evergreen and yes cats love it!

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Oregano Common

Herb. A highly ornamental and delicious herb that is an essential ingredient in Italian style cuisine. A must have on top of Pizza. Mainly used dry. Plant in a sunny well drained spot and give it a good haircut every now and then. Perennial.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

True Greek oregano is the superior, true culinary type of oregano prized by Italian and Greek chefs. It is highly aromatic and flavorful, combining superbly with fresh tomatoes or tomato sauces, egg and cheese combinations such as omelets and quiche, marinated vegetables, meat, fish and poultry.

Grows well in a container.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Italian Parsley

I can't do without this wonderful Parsley in my vege patch. Large flat leaves that are full of flavour and highly decorative. A lovely garnish and great in a variety of soups, casseroles etc. Plant in sun or part shade in well drained soil. Fertilize every now and then and harvest regularly. Evergreen.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Parsley

Ever popular Parsley is probably the most widely used Herb world wide. Full of iron and excellent for eating fresh or dried. Goes with just about everything. Plant in sun or part shade in well drained soil. Give it a little bit of fertilizer every now and then and harvest regularly. Evergreen.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

Peppermint is a hybrid mint, a cross between watermint and spearmint. The plant, indigenous to Europe and the Middle East, is now widespread in cultivation in many regions of the world. It is found wild occasionally with its parent species.

Peppermint is assertive enough to stand up to strong flavours, so it's ideal for chocolate desserts and boldly flavoured dishes.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Rosemary

A prostrate form of Rosemary that has a ground-hugging habit. Pretty, clear blue flowers set against blue-green, aromatic foliage. Flowers through the summer and will attract bees to the garden. Extremely hardy, excellent for coastal planting and hot sunny positions. Evergreen.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Rosemary

This rosemary is a culinary delight and has been especially selected for its fantastic flavour. Lovely to grow in the herb or ornamental garden in a warm sunny spot. Pretty blue flowers that attract bees. Honey, is that roast lamb I smell cooking?

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

Gorizia Rosemary was named for the town (Gorizia, Italy) in which it was discovered. A mildew resistant variety, the large, flat leaves of this selection are unusual for Rosemary, making it unique and very appealing. Gorizia has an upright habit and sports large light lavender-blue flowers in spring. Use with meats, vegetables, and bread recipes.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Prostrate Rosemary

A prostrate Rosemary that can be used as a ground-cover in a sunny well drained spot. Soft grey/green aromatic foliage and little blue flowers from spring through to autumn. Can be used for culinary purposes. Protect from harsh frost. Evergreen.

Rosemary is the traditional herb for remembrance and is a lovely garden plant as well as a useful culinary herb and let's face it no lamb roast is complete without it.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Rosemary

A easy care and easy to grow Rosemary that is great for covering banks and draping over walls. Quite prostrate in habit so give it room to spread. Nice fresh green foliage and pretty blue flowers off and on all year but mostly in spring and autumn. Loves the sun and good drainage. Evergreen.

Though this Rosemary is mostly used for ornamental purposes it is still a culinary herb that can be used in cooking.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Rosemary

This NZ bred Rosemary is a very useful ground-cover plant and culinary herb. Fine, dark green needles of aromatic foliage and bright blue flowers that appear throughout the year but mainly in early summer. Loves the sun, tolerant and hardy but must have good drainage. Evergreen.

A great plant for cascading over walls and banks or over the side of herb planters. Trims well and demands very little.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Rosemary upright

Rosemary. A classic culinary herb suitable for use in all manner of dishes but especially with lamb. Attractive aromatic foliage and pretty blue flowers that appear mostly in summer. Use as a herb, ornamental shrub or for hedging. Prefers the sun and good drainage. Bees love it. Evergreen.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Rosemary

A fabulous new version of an old favourite. An upright Rosemary that grows into a pillar or column. Softest blue, large flowers appear from April through to October with the main flowering in September. Loves a well drained sunny position. Clips well. Evergreen.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Rosemary

Prostrate groundcover with light blue flowers and aromatic foliage. Ideal for hot, dry areas. Very hardy and fast growing. Excellent for banks and rockeries.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Rosemary

'Tuscan Blue' is a form of the upright Rosmarinus officinalis selected for the dark blue flowers which appear on and off for most of the year. Happiest in the sun with good drainage. Tolerant of cold and coastal conditions. Trim regularly to keep compact and encourage new growth. Evergreen.

This Rosemary can be used for culinary purposes, mmmm is that Roast Lamb I smell cooking? Also makes a great hedge or background shrub.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Sage

The downy grey-green leaves of this perennial Herb are widely used to add flavour to poultry and pork dishes. Use fresh leaves sparingly as they have quite a strong flavour. Plant in a sunny well drained spot in light sandy soil for best results. Evergreen.

Sage has been used historically for many medicinal purposes.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

Purple Sage is a lovely addition to any landscape, kitchen garden or combination herb planter. Sage requires well drained soil, is drought tolerant. Sage can be used fresh or dried as a culinary flavouring.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

Variegated sage is grown for its attractive and aromatic leaves. The green leaves are marbled and blushed with yellow gold highlights. They have an earthy spicy aroma with a more subtle flavor than standard sage. It is a slower growing variety as are most colored varieties of sage, making it's leaves slightly more tender than standard sage.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Pineapple sage

Such a versatile sage whether being appreciated for its red flowers or sweet pineapple scent. This herb both looks and smells great. Abundantly adorned with red flowers that display well in a vase, in the garden or in salads (yes, you can eat them!). Give full sun and a well drained position. Perennial

Pineapple sage leaves are often used dried or fresh in teas.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Shallots or Scalloins

A versatile perennial bulb that has a mild sweet taste compared to its close relative the Onion. When planting do not bury the bulb too deep - 1 bulb should multiply to 6-12 bulbs which are harvested when the green tops wilt and turn brown usually in autumn. Dry in the sun prior to storage.

The green tops of your Shallots can be used like chives for salads etc if you wish. Shallots are shallow rooted so it is important that they get even moisture for good yields i.e. do not let them dry out. They will store for up to 12 months after drying.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

Sorrel is a slender herbaceous perennial plant about 60 cm high, with roots that run deep into the ground, as well as juicy stems and edible, arrow-shaped leaves.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

Full of fresh flavour and aroma Mint is one of our favourite and most used culinary herbs. Vigorous and spreading in habit so sometimes safer in a container. Will grow in sun or part shade and prefers moist cool soil to do well. Trim regularly to encourage new growth. Perennial.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Sweetleaf, Sugarleaf

In the wild, Stevia grows to 2 feet in height while cultivated varieties grow to three feet. A spindly, many-branched plant with an interesting root system. Fine roots spread out on the surface of the soil, while a thicker part of the root grows deep into the soil. The stems are hairy, wand-like and covered with leaves. Leaves are opposite and toothed, fibrous and dark green.

Stevia rebaudiana is a plant species in the genus Stevia of the sunflower family, commonly known as sweetleaf, sweet leaf, sugarleaf.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

Aromatic herb used since the Middle Ages as an insect repellent. It is used to expel worms in animals (including humans), repel fleas and bed bugs and to delouse parasites on horses and dogs. Dried, it will also repel moths and ants in stored goods. It has green fern like leaves with attractive heads of yellow button flowers.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka French Tarragon

A refined flavour indispensable to the classic French cuisine. Glossy long green leaves which release a bitter sweet, warm peppery scent with an anise undertone. Use fresh to flavour salads, meats, fish and egg dishes Sunny, light well drained soil. Perennial

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

Perennial which has a tarragon scent with undertones of anise. Prefers well drained soil in full sun. Golden yellow flowers in flat clusters

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Golden Thyme

Highly aromatic small yellow leaves that can be used to flavour meat or vegetable dishes. Dainty white to mauve flowers appear in summer and should be removed after flowering. Hardy and easy to grow in a sunny well drained spot. Evergreen.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

A seasoning for poultry,pizza,shellfish,beef or game. Culinary aromatic herb so useful in cooking . Also very attractive to grow in the perennial garden bearing flowers all over. Great ground-cover Grow in full sun and free draining soil. Perennial

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Carpet or Creeping Thyme

This is the perfect Thyme to use as a tough aromatic ground-cover. Little dark green leaves and tiny crimson pink flowers in summer. Hardy and easy to grow. Benefits from a light trim every now and then. Evergreen.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Creeping Thyme

This delightful and dainty little Thyme is perfect for use as a ground-cover in a warm sunny well drained position or just enjoy some in a pot. The little bright green leaves are smothered by dainty white flowers in summer. Forms a neat and tidy mat. Evergreen.

Can be used for culinary purposes if desired. Trim lightly after flowering to keep compact and avoid over fertilizing as generally Thyme are best left to their own devices.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Lemon Thyme

Lemon Thyme is is known to be especially mouth-watering with poultry and in salads. An herb whose scent is regularly described as astonishing, it is super delicious when added to herb butters and herbed bread. IHoneybees love the flowers of the thyme plant! Perennial

Thymus Lemon's slow mounding habit is beautiful in the landscape as a border or edging plant.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Lemon Variegated Thyme

The small cream-edged green leaves of this lovely thyme will release a burst of citrus scent each time they are brushed against, while the clusters of pink flowers will add even more colour in summer.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Pizza Thyme

My favourite Thyme for cooking as it has a superb flavour and aroma that carries a hint of Oregano. Lovely dark green leaves. Fabulous in meat and tomato dishes and of course Pizza. Happy in sunny well drained position in the garden or a container. Evergreen.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Woolly Thyme

The best known name for this garden Thyme is Woolly Thyme which relates to the tiny, hairy, grey leaves which form a dense carpet. While not suitable for culinary purposes it is very useful as a ground-cover or for draping over walls and banks. Evergreen.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Thyme

Herb. Want a super dramatic groundcover? Ruby carpet will cover itself in gorgeous pink flowers throughout spring. Excellent bee attractant for the vege garden and an excellent culinary herb as well. Aromatic foliage. Happy in a sunny well drained position in the garden or container. Evergreen.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Silver Thyme

Thyme Silver has the same uses as Thyme Common: it's a great accompaniment for soup, marinades, stuffings and veges and is also delicious with beef, chicken, fish, veal, cheese and tomato sauces.

Placed in a pillow, Thyme was said to induce sleep and ward off nightmares.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Silver Queen Thyme

This pretty little Thyme is usually grown more as an ornamental than a herb because of its attractive, dainty, silver-green leaves that are edged with white. Lilac flowers in summer. Highly aromatic. Plant in sunny well drained spot. Evergreen.

 

CLICK TO ENLARGE

aka Common Thyme

Common Thyme. The most popular culinary thyme with highly aromatic small green leaves that can be used to flavour meat or vegetable dishes. Dainty white to mauve flowers appear in summer and should be removed after flowering. Hardy and easy to grow in a sunny well drained spot. Evergreen.

 

Wasabi is a lush evergreen perennial with large, heart-shaped leaves approx 30cm. A great plant to use for that `tropical look` in a frost free garden. Has small white flowers in Spring that are also edible along with its stems. Likes shaded areas and indirect sunlight.

The rhizomes can be harvested after 2 years for cooking. Use grated stems and flowers in salads. or along side your favorite Japanese dish.