Herb Gardening in the Low Desert

Herb Gardeningin the Low Desert

Mike & Carolyn HillsArizona Herb Association

&Maricopa CountyMaster Gardeners

Mike Carolyn

AZHerb.org

@HerbArizonaFacebook/ArizonaHerb

[email protected]

And, there’s ROSEMARY ….That’s for

remembrance. W.Shakespeare

http://www.nothyme.com/herbs/rosemary.cfm

Our Personal SoapboxSun Protection Tools

Arizona has the highest

incidence of skin cancer in the USA, with 300+ sun days

per yearhttp:azcc.arizona.edu/prevent/

Skin_Prevent.htm

AZ Gardening Tools

Regular skin checkup

And, it’s not just about skin cancer• Excess sun exposure can cause: • premature aging • wrinkled, leathery and rough skin • sunburn• skin cancer

Sun Protective Clothing

www.sunprotectiveclothing.com

BAKER NURSERY and Other Local, Family Owned Gardener Friendly Nurseries & Garden Shops PLUS,

Sports Stores

What We’ll Talk About Today• Intro to MGs & AHA• What’s an Herb?• Where to Plant/How to Grow• Top Reasons Why Herbs Die Here• Recommended Gardens to Tour• Recommended Books

What We’ll Talk About Today• Where to Buy/Botanical Names• Pop Quiz• Garden Tour• Break• Parade of Herbs• Summary• Questions

Maricopa County Master Gardeners

• 600 Volunteers who “help promote environmentally responsible gardening & landscaping in the Low Desert”– Desert Garden Institute– Ambassadors– Speakers Bureau– Hotline, Website, List Serve, Publications

• http://cals.arizona.edu/maricopa/garden/• Garden Questions 602-470-8086

Maricopa County Master Gardeners

• Become a Master Gardener Volunteer!

• Call 602-470-8086 for next training• http://cals.arizona.edu/maricopa/

garden/html/mgs/mg-broch.htm

Arizona Herb Associationest. 1988

• 100-200 herb enthusiasts • Meet 1st Thursday of each month

(except Summer) 7:00 p.m.• Speakers on all aspects of herbs• Demonstration Garden• Scholarships & Public Service• www.azherb.org for location & topic• Or 602-470-8086 ext 830

Arizona Herb AssociationHerb Demonstration Garden

Arizona Herb AssociationCulinary Group

“Herb” vs. “Erb” (and “Yerba”)• Oxford English Dictionary -- “Herb”

• Webster’s American Dictionary – either pronunciation accepted.

• “Yerba” is the Spanish word for herb– Yerba Anis (Mexican Tarragon)– Yerba Mansa (Swamp Root)– Yerba Buena (Spearmint)

What is an Herb?• An Herb is a PLANT:

– Trees– Shrubs and sub-shrubs– Vines– Woody-stemmed perennials– Herbaceous plants

– annual, perennial and biennual

– Ferns– Fungi (current research for sunscreen pill extract)

What is an Herb?• A Herb is a USEFUL Plant:

– Culinary– Medicinal– Crafting– Dyes– Religious/Cultural/Ceremonial– Beauty/Personal Care– Aroma

What Part of the Herb is Used?• Roots• Stems• Leaves• Flowers• Fruits

(Seeds or Bark = Spices)

Where do Herbs Come From?Every Land Mass – Every Culture

Climate Origin Clues for Growing Herbs

• Central Europe – cool & moist

• Eurasia – cool and moderate moisture

• Mediterranean – dry & hot

• Africa – dry & hotOR tropical & wet

• Central America – tropical hot & wet

• South America – variable – Where?

• Mexico – dry & hot OR tropical & wet

• North America – variable – Where?

• Southeast Asia – tropical hot & wet

• China – variable – Where?

Herbs are Easy to Grow in the Low Desert

• Many popular & common herbs originated in the Mediterranean or North Africa, places with:– hot climates– low rainfall– alkaline soils

• Just like SouthwestUSA

Green French LavenderCulinary Sage

Herbs are Easy to Grow in the Low Desert

• Many other herbs originated in tropical Southeast Asia, Equatorial Africa, or tropical South & Central America.

• Love our heat, but need additional:– organic matter– water– fertilizer

LemongrassBasil

Where Should You Plant Herbs?

Traditional Herb Garden from “Practical Herb Garden” by J. Houdret


Cloister Garden from “Practical Herb Garden” by J. Houdret


Tudor “Knot” Garden from “Practical Herb Garden” by J. Houdret


Mesquite Herb Garden


Another Mesquite Herb Garden


Aloe vera in a Xeriscape Landscape


Chaparral Sage in a Landscape


African Blue Basil on a Patio


Apple Mint as Garden Art


Rosemary Trailing Over a Wall


Rosemary Trailing Over a Parking Garage


Rosemary at a Gas Station


Rosemary as a hedge


Breadseed (Opium) & California Poppies in a Wildflower Mix


Breadseed Poppies in a Wildflower Mix


Yerba Mansa in a Pond Environment

Where Should You Plant Herbs? Anywhere!!

Yerba Mansa in a Birdbath

Top Reasons Why Herbs Die#1

• You planted at the wrong time!• Our planting calendar is “backward”

Fall is primary planting season here– Parsley– Dill– Fennel– Cilantro– Onions/Garlics


• You chose the wrong site for your variety.

Variegated Sage Can’t Survive full sun or bad drainage


• You over-watered!

French Lavender Dead from Root Rot


• Perennial/Bienniel elsewhere, Annual here!

Parsley Transplants Just Can’t Survive our Hot Summers

Photo Courtesy ofwww.johnnyseeds.com

Plant from seed for best success!

Local Herb Gardens to Tour• Desert Botanical Garden

• Boyce Thompson Arboretum

• Tucson Botanical Garden

• Arboretum at Flagstaff

• Tohono Chul Park – Tucson

• Maricopa County Extension

Beware of Most Herb Booksand Magazines

• Written in U.K. or Northeastern U.S.• Poor guidelines for Low Desert

– planting/harvesting calendars– sunlight/water requirements

• Great for photos, uses, history, design ideas, recipes, etc.

• CHECK www.herbsociety.org

Recommended Gardening & Herb Books

• Desert Gardening for Beginners (Arizona Master Gardener Press)– How to grow vegetables,

flowers and herbs in an arid climate

– Covers all the basics for desert gardeners


• Gardening in the Desert (Mary F. Irish, U of A Press)– How to grow vegetables,

flowers and herbs in an arid climate

– Practical advice on plants and gardening practices for anyone who lives in the Southwest


• Low-Desert Herb Gardening Handbook (Arizona Herb Association)– Herb planting & harvesting

month by month– Specifically written for low-

desert herb gardening


• Desert Landscaping for Beginners (Arizona Master Gardener Press)– Tips and techniques for

success in an arid climate

– Ch. 12 - Rose Care

– Appendix B - Rose Varieties for the Low Desert


• Earth-Friendly Desert Gardening (Arizona Master Gardener Press)– Environmentally

responsible gardening & landscaping in the low desert

– Growing in harmony with nature saves time, money, and resources

Shopping for Herbs to Plant• “Big Box” Stores

– Good for “basic” herb plants/seeds... standard culinary• Chain Nurseries

– Nice herb selection. Shop around!• Local family-owned nursery

– If they don’t have it, they’ll order it! Wider selection• Botanical Garden or Arboretum Plant Sale

– Interesting “native” or “regional” herbs• Arizona Herb Association

– Hard-to-find herbs, cheap!

Shopping for Herbs to Plant

• Pinch, sniff and taste the culinary herbs!• Won’t taste any different when growing

in your garden• Make sure you like them before you buy!• Catalog/Internet - Caution - wrong

planting season & transit damage

Botanical (Latin) Names• Many unrelated plants have similar

common names• One plant may have multiple

common names (different languages/dialects)

• Learn the botanical name to be sure you get the CORRECT PLANT

Botanical (Latin) Names• Common Names Can Be Confusing!

• “Basil Mint”• “Cinnamon Basil”• “Oregano Thyme”• “Cuban Oregano”

(also called “Spanish Thyme”)– NOT Oregano– NOT Thyme (Plectranthus amboinicus)– NOT from Cuba– NOT from Spain

Botanical (Latin) Names• Common Names Can Be Confusing!

• Mexican Bush Oregano– NOT Origanum (Lippia graveolens)– But, does contain oregano essential oils

• “Real” Oreganos (Origanum spp.)– Dittany of Crete– Wooly Oregano– Not recommended for cooking!!

• Mexican Tarragon– Root beer Plant --Yerbanis --Pericon– Winter Tarragon --Poor Man’s Tarragon

• Aztec/Nahuatl – Tzitziqui, Teyatli• Chinese (Cantonese) • 甜萬壽菊 [tìhm maahn sauh gūk] • Chinese (Mandarin) • 甜萬壽菊 [tián wàn shòu jú] • Danish - Mexikansk Esdragon • German - Samtblume, Winterestragon,

Mexicanischer Estragon • French - Tagète, Estragon du Mexique • English - Pericon, Mexican mint marigold, Winter

tarragon, Mexican tarragon, Sweet mace, Spanish tarragon, Florida tarragon, Texas tarragon

• Spanish/Mexican - Yauhtli, Pericón Amarillo, Yerba Anis, Yerba Santa Maria, Anisillo

• Swedish - Mexikansk dragon

Botanical (Latin) Names

G E N U SM en th a

F O R ML . s toec h asf. leu c an th a

S U B S P E C IE SL . s toech as

su b sp .p ed u n cu la ta

S P E C IE SL . s toec h as

C U L TIV A RL . x in te rm ed ia'G rap p en h a ll'

C U L TIV A RL . x in te rm ed ia

'S ea l'

H Y B R IDL . x in te rm ed ia

S P E C IE SL . la tifo lia

C U L TIV A RL . an g u s tifo lia

'H id co te '

C U L TIV A RL . an g u s tifo lia

'M u n s tead '

S P E C IE SL . an g u s tifo lia

V A R IE TYL . d en ta ta

var. can d ican s

S P E C IE SL . d en ta ta

G E N U SL avan d u la

G E N U SA ch illea

F A M IL YL A B IA TA E /L A M IA C E A E

Chart Courtesy of “Practical Herb Garden” by J. Houdret

Soil Preparation• DRAINAGE is KEY!• Do NOT discard your native soil• Add organic amendments• Add phosphorous containing fertilizer

when preparing beds• Only add Nitrogen fertilizers to tropical,

fast-growing herbs• Add gravel, coarse sand, pumice to

increase drainage where needed» SEE ROOT ROT PREVENTION HANDOUT

Watering Considerations• Check references to see if your herb

choices are from dry or tropical areas• Group the plants in the garden with

others with similar water needs• Dry origin herbs will thrive on drip

irrigation, especially with more drainage• Mulch around ROOTS to maintain

uniform moisture - do NOT mulch stems• Adjust watering as seasons change

Note:• We ain’t doctors!• We ain’t herbalists!• We ain’t naturopaths!• We ain’t shamen!

• We ARE providing information on historical and traditional uses of herbs.

Pop QuizAre These Herbs??

?

Mesquite• Prosopis spp.• YES!!

– Beans ground into a nutritious flour, beneficial to diabetics

– Sap used as a dye by Native Americans

– Bark boiled into a medicinal tea by Native Americans

Prickly Pear/Indian Fig Cactus• Opuntia ficus-indica• YES!!

– Pads used to treat wounds and sunburn

– Pads and fruit are eaten as a slow-digesting carbohydrate, beneficial to diabetics

– Cochineal scale host

Bermudagrass• Cynodon dactylon• YES!!

– Underground stems / rhizomes used as medicinal diuretic

– Used in Hindu wedding ceremonies

Vinca-Madagascar Periwinkle

• Catharanthus roseus• YES!!

– Anti-witchcraft herb– Contains vincamine

• dilates blood vessels• reduces blood pressure

– Treats cardiovascular disorders

– Research to treat several viral diseases

Poppy-California• Eschscholzia californica• YES!!

– Sedative– Topical pain reliever– Relieves anxiety,

nervous tension & insomnia

– Diuretic properties– Promotes perspiration– Edible seeds

Photo Courtesy of Sandy Wagner

Sage-Texas Ranger• Leucophyllum

frutescens• NO!! Got You!!

• Well, maybe......Possible Native American historical medicinal uses......

Lemon• Citrus limonum• YES!!

– Juice is natural antibiotic

– Oil from peel removes sticky labels

– Many culinary uses for juice and peel

– Leaves are a culinary flavoring in soups & stir fries

– Edible flower

Agave-Century Plant• Agave americana• YES!!

– Sap has anti-inflammatory properties

• relieves burns, bites & stings

– Roots used for washing clothes as a traditional “soap” substitute

– Fibers woven into rope– Powdered leaf makes snuff

Photo Courtesy Mountain States Wholesale Nursery

How Many Did You Get Right??

? Are you already suspecting that you may be a “secret “ herb gardener, unbeknownst to yourself?

B R E A K

Let’s Look at Some Herbs!

• Remember -- pinch, sniff & taste the culinary herbs!!

• All samples organically grown

• Parade of Herbs

Agave-Century Plant• Agave americana

– N. American desert origin– Full sun/drainage– Sap has anti-inflammatory

properties• relieves burns, bites &

stings

– Roots used for washing clothes & as a traditional “soap” substitute

– Fibers woven into rope– Powdered leaf makes snuff


Aloe• Aloe vera or Aloe

barbadensis– African desert origin– Filtered shade– Exceptional healing

properties• apply externally to wounds,

burns, sunburn, eczema, etc.– Anti-inflammatory & anti-

microbial agents– Taken internally for

digestive tract problems– Laxative properties

Arugula - “Rocket”• Eruca vesicaria

subsp. Sativa– Central Europe– Garden soil & water– edible flower– fresh leaves as a

flavoring for salads– seeds as mustard

substitute

Photo Courtesy of www.johnnyseeds.com

Basil• Ocimum basillicum

– Tropical Asia & Africa– Add water, fertilizer & O.M.– Prune blooms HARD & use– Antidepressant, antiseptic,

soothing properties– Fresh leaves rubbed on insect

bites and stings relieves itching

– Made into a cough syrup with honey

– Leaves used in steam inhalations for decongestion

– Many culinary uses!

Basil - many varieties & flavors

Magical Michael African Variegated

Mrs. Burns’ Lemon

Bay-Greek Laurel

• Laurus nobilis– Mediterranean origin– Harm from salt & wind– Deep irrigations helpful– Very effective in

controlling bacterial growth

– Culinary herb in soups, stews and beans, plus always used in bouquet garni

Calendula-Pot Marigold• Calendula officinalis

– Eurasia origin– Garden soil and care– Anti-inflammatory,

antiseptic properties– Antibacterial and antifungal– Ointment sooths irritated

chapped skin, eczema, insect bites & sunburn

– “Poor man’s saffron”– Petals used in salads for

peppery taste– Used in some herbal teas


Caper• Capparis spinosa

– Mediterranean origin– Frost sensitive– edible flowers, buds

and young leaves– contains anti-oxidant

flavinoid: Rutin– researchers are

investigating the potential as an extract and a pulp in cosmetics

Caper

Photo Courtesy of www.australiacapers.com.auPhoto A.H.A.

Cardamom• Elettaria

cardamomum– Tropical Asia– Enriched soil, shade– Antidepressant

properties– Digestive aid– Relieves hiccups– Seeds are chewed to

freshen the breath– Seeds are ground for

culinary spice use

Carnation

• Dianthus caryophyllus– Eurasian origins– Garden soil & care– Historical medicinal uses

• not used for that today

– Fresh flowers added to salads, floated in drinks

– Crystallized flowers garnish cakes & dessertsPhoto Courtesy of www.thegardenhelper.com

Castor Bean• Ricinus communis• Asia & Africa• Varied conditions• Frost sensitive small tree• POISONOUS!!!

– Castor oil is a laxative– Castor oil also used in

contraceptive creams and eye medications

– Used in insecticides & lubricants

– Seeds ground into ricin, a blood coagulant

Photo Courtesy of www.cambridge2000.com

Catmint• Nepeta sibirica

or Nepeta mussinii– Eurasian origin– Garden soil & care– Lowers fever, increases

perspiration, mildly sedative

– Treats colds, influenza, nervous tension, anxiety & gastric upsets

– Applied externally to cuts and bruises

– Stimulating, minty tea– Edible flowers


Catnip• Nepeta cataria

– Eurasian origin– Garden soil & care– Short-lived perennial– Uses similar to Catmint– Also used as a salad

ingredient– Relaxing tea herb -

Primary ingredient in “Sleepytime” type herbal teas

– Stimulant for some felines, all species

Photo courtesy of www.ontariowildflowers.com

Chamomile• Matricaria recutita

(German)/Annual & Chamaemelum nobile (Roman)/Perennial

• Central European origin• Garden soil & care• Shade required in heat

– Antiseptic, anti-inflammatory

– Tea helps with nausea & indigestion

– Tea promotes calm, stress reduction and sound sleep

– Edible flowerPhoto Courtesy of Sandy Wagner

Chaste Tree (Vitex)(Monk’s Pepper Tree)

• Vitex agnus-castus– Mediterranean– Landscape tree– Relaxant– Pain-relieving

properties– Reduces libido– Dried seeds used as

a substitute for black peppercorns

Chaste Tree (Vitex)

Chervil• Anthriscus

cerefolium– Eurasian origin– Garden soil & care– Winter annual– Mild digestive

properties– Very delicate flavor

for salads & culinary– Part of fines herbes

combinationPhoto Courtesy of www.johnnyseeds.com

Chicory• Chichorium intybus

– Eurasian origins– Improved garden soil– Bitter tonic herb– Dried, crushed root

made into infusions for digestive upset & to improve appetite

– Mild stimulant & laxative

– Added to salads

Chili/Chile PeppersNahuatl/Aztec = Chilli Spanish = Chile

• Capsicum spp.– Central & S. America– Good soil, fert. & water– Analgesic properties– Increases perspiration– Beneficial with heart

attack victims– Many culinary uses

fresh or dried

Photos Courtesy of www.johnnyseeds.com

Chives-Edible Blossom• Allium

schoenoprasum– Eurasia origins– Improved garden soil– No medical

applications– Culinary uses– Edible flower

Photos Courtesy of www.johnnyseeds.com

Chives-Garlic(Chives-Chinese)

• Allium tuberosum– ALL GARDENS

SHOULD HAVE!!!– Garden soil & care– many culinary uses

fresh, as a garlic or chives substitute

Cilantro(leaf-herb)/Coriander(seed-spice)

• Coriandrum sativum• WINTER ANNUAL• Eurasian origins• Garden soil & care

– digestive aid– appetite stimulant– fungicidal and

antibacterial uses– seed extract lowers

blood cholesterol– Many culinary uses

around the world

Cilantro/Coriander-Vietnamese• Polygonum

odoratum• Tropical Asia• Summer Harvest• Garden soil & care• Frost sensitive

– fresh leaves used as a perennial substitute for cilantro in many Asian recipes

Photo Courtesy of www.mountainvalleygrowers.com

Clematis Vine

• Clematis recta• POISONOUS!!!

– Traditional and historic medicinal uses for a variety of ailments

Photo Courtesy of www.ces.ncsu.edu

Coreopsis – Lance Leaved• Coreopsis lanceolata• N. American prairies• Garden soil & care or

on drip in xeriscape– traditional dye plant

for natural fibers - cotton, wool and plant fibers for linen and baskets

Creosote• Larrea tridentata• N. American deserts• Xeriscape planting

– anti-oxidant properties

– cancer treatment– immune system

stimulant– general tonic

Dandelion• Taraxacum officinale• Garden soil and care• Central Europe

– Medicinal tonics– Diuretic and urinary

infections– Appetite stimulant– Digestive aid– Edible leaf for salads– Edible flower– Flowers for wine


Datura-Sacred(Jimson Weed - Devil’s Apple)

• Datura innoxia or Datura wrightii or Datura strammonium

• POISONOUS!!!– N. American deserts– Xeriscape plantings– Traditional Native American

ceremonial and medicinal uses

– EXTREMELY toxic– Preferred food plant for larval

Hawk and Sphinx Moths

Devil’s Claw• Proboscidea

louisianica• N. American deserts• Xeriscape plantings

– Dried black fibers used in basket weaving

– Traditional medicinal uses

– Edible pods when young and tender

Dianthus - (Clove Pink)

• Dianthus spp.• Eurasian origin• Garden soil & care

– Traditional medicinal use as tonic, but not used this way today

– Edible flower to decorate salads, cakes and ice cream

Photo Courtesy of www.flowersandfauna.com

Dill (Dill Weed)• Anethum graveolens• Central Europe• Garden soil & care

– Dried seeds are the spice “Dill Seed”

– Digestive aid– Treatment for diarrhea

and dysentery– Seeds chewed for bad

breath– Fresh leaves used in

salads and cooking

Elephant Tree (Torote)• Bursera microphylla• N. American deserts• Xeriscape landscape• Frost sensitive

– Traditional incense plant among Native American tribes and Mexican cultures

– Medicinal uses as anti-microbial and anti-fungusPhoto Courtesy of

www.desert-tropicals.com

Epasote/Epazote• Chenopodium

ambrosiodes• N. America &

Mexican origin• Garden soil & care

– Aztecs used to treat internal parasites(“skunk sweat”)

– bitter, musky, “lemon peel” flavor

– Digestive aid – Natural Bean-O!

Photo Courtesy of www.mountainvalleygrowers.com

Eucalyptus (Gum Tree)• Eucalyptus spp.• Australian –

varied climatic conditions• Some prefer dry, some

prefer moist• Many species, sizes and

bloom colors are well adapted here– Decongestant and

expectorant properties– Antiseptic– Topical for painful joints,

inflammation and arthritis– Craft & floral uses

Evening Primrose

• Oenethera biennis• N. American prairie• Garden soil & care

– Seed oil has anti-oxidant benefits

– Immune booster– Menopause benefits– High blood pressure– Cosmetic uses for fresh

flowersPhoto Courtesy of www.usda.gov

Fennel• Foeniculum vulgare• Central Europe & Eurasia• Garden soil & care• PLANT IN FALL

– Dried seeds are used to treat bad breath

– Seeds used to improve digestion and aid indigestion

– Edible flower and leaves in salds and cooking

– Flowers are host for beneficial insects - ladybird beetles, lace wings and butterflies

Feverfew• Tanacetum parthenium

or Chrysanthemum parthenium

• Mediterranean origin• Garden soil & care• Frost tender Perennial

– Migraine headache treatment

– Fever reduce– Rheumatism treatment– Bitter salad leaf

Flax-Scarlet• Linum grandiflorum• Related to Linum

usitatissimum - source of fiber for linen and oil as linseed oil– Central European– Garden soil & care– Winter annual– seeds eaten for anti-

oxidant, essential fatty acids & vitamins and as a laxative

– sore throats and gastric upset

Garlic-Culinary• Allium sativum• Many varieties and also

many related sub-species grown– Eurasian origin– Garden soil & care– Plant deep in Fall– Harvest June – NO Water– Immune system enhancer– Antibiotic– Lowers blood pressure

and cholesterol– Many culinary uses

Garlic-Elephant• Allium ampeloprasum

– Same origin, planting and care

– Not garlic! It’s actually a leek!

– Similar medicinal uses and benefits to related garlic

– Culinary substitute for a more mild, less pungent garlic taste

Photo Courtesy of www.elephantgarlic.com

Garlic-Society• Tulbaghia violacea

– Mediterranean origin– Garden soil & care– Not garlic!– Not culinary for most

people.– Edible flowers

Ginger Root• Zingiber officinale

– Tropical Asia– Enriched soil & water– Frost tender– Anti-nausea for motion

sickness and pregnancy– Antiseptic and

expectorant– Promotes sweating for

colds & flus– Perfume industry and

food flavoring– Many culinary uses

Globe Artichoke• Cynara cardunculus

scolymus– Eurasian origin– Heat tender Perennial– Drainage – Root Rot– Leaves have some

beneficial constituents for liver de-toxifier

– Lowers blood pressure– EDIBLE flower bud– Dried flower for craft

projects

Globe Artichoke

Attracts Butterflies

Gotu Kola• Hydrocotyle asiatica

major– Southeast Asia– Tropical conditions– Prefers shade– Memory enhancer

according to ancient Chinese medicine

– Increases blood flow to the brain

– Edible as bitter leaf in salads

Grass-Bermuda (aka Devil’s Grass)

• Cynodon dactylon– Asia & Africa– Strong perennial– Underground stems /

rhizomes used as medicinal diuretic

– Surface stems / stolons used in Hindu wedding ceremonies

Grass-Citronella• Cymbopogon nardus

– Southeast Asia– Enriched soil and

extra water– Frost sensitive– Essential oil used in

perfume trade– Essential oil used as

insect repellant– Craft projects and

potpourri uses

Grass-Lemon• Cymbopogon

citratus– Southeast Asia– Enriched soil and

extra water– Frost sensitive– Topical antiseptic &

antibiotic uses– Externally for

rheumatism– Internally for gastric

upset & indigestion– CULINARY uses

Grass-Lemon

Grass-Lemon

Grass-Palmarosa“Rose Scented Grass”

• Cymbopogon martinii motia– Southeast Asia– Enriched soil and

extra water– Frost sensitive– Topical antiseptic

and antibiotic uses– Essential oil used in

perfume industry– Craft uses for dried

floral and potpourri

Grass-Vetiver• Vetivera zizanoides

– Southeast Asia– Tolerates all soil and

water conditions– Turns red in winter– Traditional uses in

weaving reed mats– Essential oil from roots

used widely in perfume industry

– Insect repellant– Dried stems and blooms

used in craft industry

Henna• Lawsonia inermis

– N. African deserts– Frost tender shrub– Dried foliage used to

color hair, as well as to improve hair health

– Natural dye plant for cloth or other fiber or temporary tattoos

Hibiscus (Spanish - Jamaica)• Hibiscus spp.

– Tropical Americas– VERY Prone to Root

Rot – Drainage– Frost tender– Natural lemon-tasting

tea of flowers– Beneficial tonic– Natural food colorant

Hollyhock• Althaea rosea

– Central China origin– Short-lived perennial– Easy from seed in Spring

or Fall – rich soil– Blooms second year– Demulcent to sooth sore

throat– Historical uses for chest

complaints– Dye plant for natural

fibers and cloth

Honeysuckle• Lonicera caprifolium

– N. America & Europe– Frost tender vine– Former use for

expectorant and laxative properties

– Related Chinese species used as toxin cleanser

Photo Courtesy of www.davesgarden.com

Jerusalem Artichoke• Helianthus tuberosus

– N. American prairies– Perennial Sunflower– 6-10 feet tall– Tubers dried and used

as an edible starch substitute, especially for diabetics

– Tubers are edible fresh in salads, steamed or stir-fried

Lamb’s Ear• Stachys byzantina

– Eurasian origin– Root Rot Prone– Filtered shade– Traditional use for

headaches & nervous tension

– Healing use in lotions or ointments

Lavender-Desert

• Hyptis emoryi• AZ NATIVE PLANT

– Well drained soil– 5-8 feet tall– Hummingbird attractant– Substitute for

Mediterranean lavender in all craft, cosmetic and culinary uses

– Native American use in tonic teas

Photo Courtesy of www.fireflyforest.com

Lavender• Lavandula spp.

– Mediterranean origin– VERY Prone to Root Rot –

DRAINAGE!!!– Perennial plants 3-5 years– Traditional use in headache

and nervous anxiety preparations

– Cosmetic and personal care uses, plus perfumes

– Culinary uses in baking, salads, teas

– Dried craft usesLavandula multifidaFernleaf Lavender

Lavender

….for the garden and the xeriscape landscape design

Lavender

Lavandula dentata-French Lavandula stoechas-SpanishPhoto Courtesy of www.mediterraneangardensociety.org

Hummingbird attractants

Lemon• Citrus limonum

– Tropical Asia– Frost sensitive– Good drainage critical– Juice is natural antibiotic– Oil from peel removes

sticky labels– Many culinary uses for

juice and peel– Leaves are a culinary

flavoring in Asian soups & stir fries

– Edible flower

Lemon Balm (aka Melissa)

• Melissa officinalis– Eurasian origin– Requires shade and enriched

soil with extra moisture– Anti-viral preparations,

especially for the various Herpes types

– Relaxing & sedative properties

– Depression and headache treatments

– Fresh leaves for lemon flavor to salads, soups, etc.

– Dried leaves for teas

Photo Courtesy of www.desert-tropicals.com

Lemon Verbena• Aloysia triphylla or

Aloysia citriodora– Higher elevations of

Tropical America– VERY Prone to Root Rot –

Drainage!!– Frost sensitive– Flavorful teas, as well as

other culinary uses– Perfume industry– Insect deterrant when dried– Dried craft use in sachets &

potpourri Photo Courtesy of www.desert-tropicals.com

Lion’s Tail / Lion’s Ear• Leonotis leonaurus

– Tropical Asia & Africa– Garden soil & care– Perennial 2-3 years– Readily re-seeds– Seeds relished by birds– Hummingbird Flowers– Traditional medicinal and

skin tonic uses in Asia– Smoked in its native South

Africa as a mild narcotic– Dried flower and craft uses

Madder / Dyer’s Madder• Rubia tinctorum

– Central European– Improved soil & water– VERY INVASIVE– Traditional RED dye

plant - roots used throughout Europe prior to New World discovery of Cochineal scale as superior RED dye

Marjoram• Origanum majorana

– Mediterranean origin– Drainage & Pruning– Antiseptic properties

when used topically– Internally for

relaxation and nervous tension

– Many CULINARY uses worldwide

Knot Marjoram

Sweet Marjoramin Bloom

Mesquite• Prosopis spp.

– North, South & Central American deserts native

– Fast growing trees– Do NOT stake and DO water

deeply for best growth– Beans ground into a nutritious

flour, beneficial to diabetics– Sap used as a dye by Native

Americans– Bark &/or leaves boiled into a

medicinal tea by some Native Americans

Milk Thistle• Silybum marianum

– Eurasian origin– Garden soil & care– Winter/Spring

Annual– Seeds used as a liver

de-toxifier– Appetite stimulant

Photo Courtesy of www.nwcb.wa.gov

Mint• Mentha spp.

– European & Medit.– Garden soil & care– Can be invasive– Tea for colds & flu– Useful for indigestion– Breath freshener– Decongestant &

antiseptic properties– Insect repellant– Many craft uses– Many CULINARY

uses fresh and dried

Pineapple Mint

Mint – garden control

Mint

Moroccan Mint

Apple Mintvariegated

Orange Mint

Mormon Tea• Ephedra sp.

– N. American deserts– Drainage critical– Slow growing at first– Contains pseudo-ephedrine

substances, useful in treating respiratory problems

– Tonic, somewhat minty tasting tea

– NOTE: The related Chinese species contains ephedrine and is illegal in USA

Nasturtium• Tropaeolum majus

– Tropical C.&S. America– Plant soaked seeds Fall– Protect from frost– Garden soil & care– Seeds for antiseptic and

antibacterial properties– Seeds used for upper

respiratory infections– Fresh leaves and flowers

edible in salads and appetizers

Photo Courtesy www.hear.org

Onion & Shallot• Allium cepa

– European & Mediterranean origins

– Plant in Sept/Oct/Nov– Harvest June/July– Antibiotic uses in

traditional medicine– Respiratory benefits– Many CULINARY uses

worldwide– TOXIC to dogs

Onion & Shallot

Egyptian Walking Onion

Papago I’itoi Onion (shallot)

Every gardener should have these!!!

Spanish priests gave them to the Tohono O’odham farming tribes around 1700 AD

Plant Fall/early Spring

Dig as green onions all Winter/Spring

May/June allow plants to dry down – NO water

Harvest June/July a 25-50 times increase

Oregano-Cuban• Plectranthus

amboinicus– Caribbean Mexico &

C. America origin– Extremely frost

sensitive – protect!!– Enriched soil & water– Traditional medicinal

uses throughout Caribbean

– Culinary use fresh as a substitute for European Oregano

Oregano-Dittany of Crete• Origanum dictamnus

– Mediterranean origin– Drainage critical– Filtered shade best– Traditional medicinal

uses rarely practiced now

– Decorative and dried craft uses

Oregano-Mexican Bush• Lippia graveolens

– Southwest USA & Mexican deserts

– Very frost sensitive– Large shrub to 6 feet– Traditional Native American

uses in several medicines– Major component in most dried,

culinary packaged Oregano– Excellent in all CULINARY

uses fresh or dried

Oregano-Native American (Beebalm/Bergamot)

• Monarda spp.– N. American prairies,

meadows and forests– Enriched soil & water– Traditional uses in

topical treatments as antibiotic & antiseptic

– Relaxing tea– Replacement for English

tea imports during American Revolution

– Culinary uses in cooking meats and vegetables

Photo Courtesy of www.desert-tropicals.com

Oregano-Rosemarymint• Poliomintha

maderensis cv. ‘Lavender Spice’– Mexican native– Filtered shade– Prune hard after bloom– Traditional medicinal

and ceremonial uses among Native Americans

– Culinary uses in preparation of meats

– Excellent edible flower and leaf in salads


Oregano-Syrian (Bible Hyssop)• Organum maru

or Origanum syriaca– N. African origin– Drainage important– Semi-dormant Winter– Loves hot weather– Historic uses as a topical

antiseptic tea– Culinary uses as a strong

oregano for meats, dried beans & vegetable dishes

Oregano-Wooly• Origanum

rotundifolium x dictamnus– Mediterranean origin– Drainage critical– Prefers heat & filtered

or afternoon shade– Traditional medicinal

uses, no longer practiced

– Crafting and dried floral uses

Papaya• Carica papaya

– Tropical Americas origins– Frost sensitive– Drainage critical– SALT sensitive– Many traditional medicinal

uses, both internal and topical– Wart removal, and also used

as skin treatment for freckles & sun damage

– Insecticide uses– Contains “papain”, a natural

digestive and meat tenderizer– Edible fruit

Parsley• Petroselinum crispum

– Eurasian origins– Biennial at best, usually

Winter annual– Best planted Fall from

pre-soaked seed– Blooms attract ladybugs– Traditional medicinal

and tonic uses– Rich source of vitamin

A & C, plus anti-oxidants

– Culinary uses fresh and cooked, plus seed


Passion Vine• Passiflora incarnata

– N., C. & S. American native species

– Enriched soil & water– Frost tender– Butterfly attractant– Religious significance in

Native & Christian religious ceremonies

– Traditional medicinal uses– Aphrodisiac– Edible flower & fruit

Patchouli• Pogostemon cablin or

Pogostemon heyneanyus– Southeast Asian origin– Frost & Salt sensitive– Filtered shade– Historic medicinal and

insect repellant uses– Cosmetic and body

care uses– Perfume industry

Photo Courtesy of www.oller.net

Poppy-Breadseed• Papaver somniferum

– Eurasian origins– Garden soil & care– Winter ANNUAL– Readily re-seeds Fall– Edible seeds for baking,

salads, etc. (no alkaloid)– Sap collected as base for

heroin, opium and related illegal narcotics, but the flower can be grown for decorative use

– Traditional medicinal uses for pain and sedative

Poppy - Breadseed

Food and Medicine

“Poppies, my pretty……”

Poppy-California & Mexican Gold

• Eschscholzia californica & Eschscholzia mexicana– N. American native– Winter ANNUAL– Varied soil & water– Sedative– Topical pain reliever– Relieves anxiety, nervous tension

& insomnia– Diuretic properties– Promotes perspiration– Edible seeds

Prickly Pear/Indian Fig Cactus• Opuntia ficus-indica

– Mexico & N. America– Frost sensitive– Full sun – good drainage– Pads used to treat wounds

and sunburn– Pads and fruit are eaten as a

slow-digesting carbohydrate, beneficial to diabetics

– Cochineal scale host

Rose• Rosa spp.

– Europe, Eurasia, China and N. America

– Garden soil & care– Prune HARD in January– Local Rose Societies– Many species and

hybrids and varieties– Traditional uses in

medicinal and personal care products

– Edible flowers fresh or in jams and teas

– Edible fruit with high Vitamin C

Rosemary• Rosemary officinalis

– Mediterranean origin– Drainage critical– Variable cold tolerance– Historical association

with memory/learning– Improves blood flow in

the brain– Myth and legend relates

to friendship– Hair & scalp tonic– Many culinary uses!

Rosemary – many varieties & uses

‘Tuscan’

‘Huntington Blue’

‘Arp’

‘Madelene Hill’

‘Spice Islands’

Saffron Crocus• Crocus sativus• Eurasia & Meditteranean• Drainage critical• Improved soil, some shade• NOTE - leaves show in

Spring, bulb is dormant in Summer and flowers appear in Fall – mark planting well– Medicinal uses as a

digestive aid– Improves circulation &

blood pressure– Many CULINARY uses

Photo Courtesy of www-ang.kfunigraz.ac.at

Sage-Culinary• Salvia officinalis• NOT all salvias are

edible or same uses– Mediterranean origin– DRAINAGE Critical– Frost sensitive– Traditional medicinal

uses as topical antiseptic– Cold & Flu treatment– Perfume and personal

care uses– CULINARY uses in

cooking and teas

Berggarten Sage

Sage-Culinary

Variegated Sage Purple Sage

Sage Blooms

Sage-Chaparral or Cleveland• Salvia clevelandii• EXCELLENT xeriscape

plant for low water use– Texas & Mexico native– DRAINAGE critical– Prune hard after bloom– similar historic medicinal

uses to Culinary Sage– Also used in teas and

cooking, although flavor is different

– Craft, potpourri and dried floral uses

– Hummingbird attractant

Sage-Jerusalem• Phlomis fruticosa

– Mediterranean native– Drainage critical– Prune hard after bloom– Traditional medicinal

preparations as topical antiseptic

– Primarily crafter and dried floral plant

– Bright yellow blooms in Spring / early Summer

Sage-Mexican Bush• Salvia leucantha

– Mexican native plant– Tolerates wide range of

soils and water– Frost sensitive– Historic and current

medicinal uses among Native American tribes throughout Central America & Mexico

– Ceremonial uses in Day of the Dead ceremonies in parts of Mexico

– Dried floral and craft uses, plus HUMMINGBIRDS

Sage-Pineapple• Salvia elegans

– Tropical Americas– VERY Frost tender– Improved soil/water– Good drainage– History of similar

medicinal uses to other sages

– Edible flowers and leaves for salads

– Some culinary uses– HUMMINGBIRDS

Sage-Russian• Perovskia atriplicifolia

– Eurasian origin– Winter dormant– Drainage important– Prune hard after bloom– Historic and traditional

medicinal uses, rarely practiced currently

– Crafter and dried floral uses now

Salad Burnet• Poterium sanguisorba

or Pimpinella saxifraga– Eurasian origin– Afternoon shade– Garden soil & care– Historic use as a digestive

aid after meals– Seeds used in medicinal

preparations– Edible flower and leaves

for salads

Scented Geranium• Pelargonium spp.

– Southern Africa origin– Garden soil & care– Frost sensitive– Smaller leaved varieties better

as container plants– Medicinal uses in South Africa

in teas and topical solutions– Dried craft uses– Perfume industry– Culinary uses in cakes and teas

Sesame• Sesamum indicum• Africa & Asia origin• Spring/Summer ANNUAL• Plant after last frost• 4-8 feet tall• Seeds ripen all summer• Sesame oil & seeds used in

cooking– Rich in vitamins &

minerals• eneficial for problem skin

(eczema and psoriasis)– helps protect against

harmful sun rays

Sorrel

• Rumex acetosa– Central Europe– Shade in Summer– Garden soil & care– Short-lived perennial– Rheumatism and

arthritis sufferers should NOT consume

– Edible leaves for salads, soups, etc. and steamed as a “green”

Photo Courtesy of www.sandmountainherbs.com

Southernwood-Powis Castle• Artemisia abrotanum

‘powis castle’– Mediterranean origin– Drainage critical– Prune hard in Spring– Appetite stimulant and

tonic as a mild tea– Historic medicinal uses

as de-wormer– Insect repellant– Dried craft projects

Statice-Sea Lavender• Statice caroliniana

or Statice limonium– Eurasia origin– Garden soil & care– Perennial bloomer– dried floral and

crafting plant

Stevia• Stevia rebaudiana

– Central America– Filtered shade– Enriched soil/water– Natural plant

sweetener from the dried and powdered leaves, or as liquid extract drops

– ZERO calories– Can substitute for

sugar in all uses, including cookingPhoto Courtesy www.mountainvalleygrowers.com

Sunflower

• Helianthus annus• North American native plant• Garden soil & care• Plant seeds EARLY Fall or

EARLY Spring• Seeds ripen Summer

– seeds and oil loaded with vitamin E

– Antioxidant– Seed hulls a traditional dye

source for Hopi– Traditionally used for

coughs and bronchitis

Tarragon-French• Artemisia dracunculus

var. sativa• CAUTION – French only

from cuttings or root divisions - SEEDS are only for “Russian Tarragon” with NO flavor at all– Eurasian native– Frost and Heat sensitive– Drainage critical– Fresh or dried use as

culinary herb

Photo Courtesy of www.mobot.org

Tarragon-Mexican• Tagetes lucida• Many Common names due

to the popularity of this herb– Mexico & C. America origin– Tropical – frost tender– Blooms Oct.-January– Enriched soil / extra water– Traditional medicinal tea uses

in Mexican & Central American homes

– Culinary substitute for French Tarragon in recipes

– Excellent in teas – ice or hot

Thyme• Thymus spp.• MANY species and

varieties & flavors– Mediterranean origin– Drainage critical– Prune regularly– Antiseptic and

antibiotic uses– Coughs and colds– Beneficial mouthwash

and for teeth/gums– CULINARY uses

Thyme-Conehead• Coriothymus capitalus• Or Thymbra capitata

‘Conehead Thyme’• Mediterranean origin• Drainage critical• Blooms all summer• Source of much of the

packaged commercial thyme & thyme oil in retail markets– Contains thymol as key

constituent for health & antiseptic benefits

– CULINARY uses fresh or dried - very strong

Vinca-Madagascar Periwinkle

• Catharanthus roseus• Madagascar Island• Garden soil & care• Tender perennial• Re-seeds readily

– Anti-witchcraft herb– Contains vincamine

• dilates blood vessels• reduces blood pressure

– Treats cardiovascular disorders– Research to treat several viral

diseases

Viola / Pansy / Sweet Violet• Viola spp.

– Europe, Eurasia, North America, Mediterranean

– Garden soil & care– Filtered to Full Shade– Many traditional

medicinal uses as anti-inflammatory

– Expectorant– Skin care & Perfume– Edible flower & leaves

in salads

Photo Courtesy of www.gardenguides.com

Yarrow• Achillea spp.• Gold, White, Pastels

– Europe, Eurasia, North America

– Filtered shade– Enriched soil, water– Historic use in

antiseptic medicinals and insecticides

– Current use as dried floral and craft plant


Yerba Mansa – “Swamp Root”• Anemopsis californica• Native Arizona/Calif.

wetlands plant – endangered• Moist conditions• Filtered shade• Long history of use in many

different medicines, both internal and topically

• Roots used for mouth and wound treatment

• Popular pond plant

What Did We Learn?• Hundreds of herbs can easily be grown

in the Low Desert landscape & garden• Our seasons are different• Our soils are “interesting”• Our waters are salty• Plant herbs in the right season & the

right location for a successful garden!

Questions??

Self Improvement

Herb Gardening in the Low Desert