This might seem like an odd herb to highlight, but it’s an interesting herb to get to know. However, before you go out and pick some juniper berries off your shrubs, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. The type of juniper berries you should use, especially…
Horseradish, a member of the cruciferous family, has been used throughout the centuries as an herbal remedy for sinus problems, colds, and flu. However, new studies are confirming that horseradish could also protect against cancer. Maybe it’s time to take another look at this under appreciated herb. Although all parts…
Parsley is one of the easiest herbs to grow, and one of the handiest to have around at all times. Growing up, we adorned our plates with parsley and called them “gourmet” meals. However, humans aren’t the only ones who fancy this herb. The Eastern Black Swallowtail Butterfly lays eggs…
Although there are many varieties of savory, the only ones you’re likely to locate in the US are summer (annual) and winter (perennial) savory. The summer variety is a little less pungent and is sometimes described as tasting similar to thyme or marjoram, but has historically been used much like…
Do you have any of these growing in your garden? Calendula (calendula officinalis) is the common flower we call calendula or pot marigold, but it should not be confused with decorative marigolds (genus, tagetes) that you often find in summer gardens. As you can see, their appearance is not the…
Many years ago (okay, decades actually) I lived in France and enjoyed tilleul tea. When I came back to the States I realized we called it linden, but I still didn’t really know what it was. It’s been a long time since I’ve had linden tea or even thought about…
In my mind, spring and mint just go together. We combine fresh spring peas with mint, and serve Easter lamb with mint sauce. What would Derby Day be without mint juleps, but just another horse race? Here in North Carolina mint is in its full glory in May and June. I…
In the Victoria language of flowers, hibiscus symbolizes “Delicate Beauty.” So, if you want to tell someone you think they are delicately beautiful (like my lovely daughter in this photo) give her a hibiscus plant. Hibiscus flowers come in many colors, but it is the dark pink or deep magenta…
If I had to choose only 10 culinary herbs for my kitchen, thyme would make the list, for sure. It’s used in many cuisines all around the world: Cajun, Jamaican, Italian, French, Greek, Middle Eastern, Australian… Although indigenous to the Mediterranean, species are also found in Asia, North Africa and…
Daffodils and dandelions tell us spring is just around the corner. Both plants produce lovely yellow flowers, but one we fertilize, and the other we poison. Ironically, it’s the one we detest that we should actually revere. Daffodils may be pretty, but dandelions are packed with nutritional and medicinal benefits! Dandelion…