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.

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.

 

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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!

 

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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.

 

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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. A good container variety.

 

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Is a leaf celery with finely cut parsley looking leaves. A celery-scented herb rich in vitamins and minerals. Wild celery has been used for asthmatic and bronchial conditions as well as rheumatoid arthritis. It has also been used as a sedative and to assist with some kidney problems.Dark green stalks and finely curled leaves have a distinct celery flavour and can be used for flavouring meals or garnishing dishes.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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aka Rosemary

Rosemary - White. An unusual form of Rosemary that has aromatic pale green foliage and pure white blooms. Suitable for culinary or ornamental use. Loves the sun and good drainage. Trim after flowering. Perhaps a hedge with a difference? Evergreen.

 

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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.