Herbs – hardiness zones compared (USDA, RHS, Canadian & Australian)

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All 181 herbs in the catalogue, alphabetical by common name. Each links to a full page with its ratings across the USDA, RHS, Canadian and Australian systems.

Agrimony Agrimonia eupatoria – Slender meadow perennial with tall spikes of small yellow flowers. Mild and safe digestive and urinary tonic in European herbal tradition. USDA zones 3–8
Alder — Common Alnus glutinosa – Riparian European tree, one of the few non-leguminous nitrogen fixers thanks to its Frankia root symbiosis. Bark is a traditional astringent for sore throats. USDA zones 3–7
Amla (Indian gooseberry) Phyllanthus emblica – Subtropical tree producing small green-yellow fruit with the highest natural vitamin C of any commonly cultivated plant. A central Ayurvedic rasayana (rejuvenative). USDA zones 9–12
Andrographis Andrographis paniculata – Bitter Asian annual sometimes called "Indian echinacea". Aerial parts are a traditional immune support herb across South and Southeast Asia. USDA zones 9–12
Angelica Angelica archangelica – Stately biennial or short-lived perennial with hollow stems that have long been candied as a confection. Aromatic root is a traditional digestive bitter. USDA zones 3–7
Anise myrtle Syzygium anisatum – Subtropical Queensland native with intensely anise-scented leaves rich in anethole. Culinary and digestive medicinal use. USDA zones 9–11
Aniseed myrtle Backhousia anisata – Rare subtropical rainforest tree from northern NSW with strongly aniseed-scented, culinary leaves. USDA zones 10–11
Ashwagandha Withania somnifera – Indian Ayurvedic adaptogen — a small woody shrub with red berries. Roots are the medicinal part, harvested in autumn. USDA zones 8–11
Astragalus Astragalus membranaceus – Chinese leguminous perennial. Roots ("huang qi") are a major immune tonic in traditional Chinese medicine; harvest 4+ year roots. USDA zones 5–9
Australian bush mint Mentha satureioides – Aromatic creeping native mint from eastern Australia, a relative of pennyroyal, used for tea and flavouring. USDA zones 8–10
Australian native thyme Prostanthera incisa – Aromatic eastern-Australian shrub (a cut-leaf mint bush) whose leaves are used as a native culinary herb. USDA zones 9–10
Bacopa (Brahmi) Bacopa monnieri – Creeping aquatic or semi-aquatic perennial. One of the most studied Ayurvedic herbs for cognitive support and memory. USDA zones 8–12
Bai zhu (White atractylodes) Atractylodes macrocephala – Thistle-relative perennial with finely divided leaves and ornamental thistle-like flower heads. Rhizomes are a major TCM digestive and spleen tonic. USDA zones 4–8
Bibhitaki Terminalia bellirica – Tropical tree native to South and Southeast Asia. Fruit is a respiratory tonic and the third component of the Ayurvedic triphala formula. USDA zones 10–12
Bitter dream herb Calea zacatechichi – Frost-tender Central American shrub taken traditionally as a bitter tea and "dream herb". USDA zones 9–11
Bitter melon Momordica charantia – Tropical cucurbit climber producing warty green fruit eaten as a vegetable across South and Southeast Asia. Studied for hypoglycaemic activity. USDA zones 9–12
Black cohosh Actaea racemosa – Tall woodland perennial with feathery white flower spikes (1.5–2 m). Roots are a widely-used herb for menopausal symptom support. USDA zones 3–8
Blessed thistle (Holy thistle) Cnicus benedictus – Spiny annual thistle with yellow flower heads. Traditional digestive bitter and galactagogue; different from milk thistle despite the similar common names. USDA zones 4–8
Bloodroot Sanguinaria canadensis – Spring ephemeral of eastern North American woodlands. White flowers and orange-red sap from the rhizome. Listed for reference rather than home use. USDA zones 3–8
Blue cohosh Caulophyllum thalictroides – Eastern North American woodland perennial with finely divided foliage and deep blue berries. Listed for reference; significant toxicity precludes home use. USDA zones 3–8
Blue vervain Verbena hastata – North American native vervain with candelabra spikes of small blue-violet flowers. Nervine and digestive with a bitter taste. USDA zones 3–8
Bog myrtle (Sweet gale) Myrica gale – Aromatic wetland shrub of UK and northern European bogs. Used to flavour beer (gruit) before hops became standard, and a traditional Scottish midge repellent. USDA zones 1–6
Boneset Eupatorium perfoliatum – Wetland-edge perennial with characteristic perfoliate leaves (the stem appears to grow through them). Traditionally used for influenza and feverish illness. USDA zones 3–8
Borage Borago officinalis – Bristly annual herb with brilliant blue star-shaped flowers. Once sown, returns yearly from self-set seed. USDA zones 2–11
Boswellia (Frankincense) Boswellia sacra – Small drought-adapted tree of the Arabian Peninsula and Horn of Africa. Resin is the source of frankincense and a powerful anti-inflammatory. USDA zones 10–12
Bronze fennel Foeniculum vulgare ‘Purpureum’ – Tall perennial fennel with the same anise-scented foliage and yellow umbel flowers as the green form, but with smoky purple-bronze new growth. USDA zones 4–9
Buckthorn — Alder Frangula alnus – Wetland-edge European shrub. Aged bark is a stimulant laxative similar to senna; only the dried-and-aged bark is safe — fresh bark causes severe vomiting. USDA zones 3–7
Bupleurum (Chai hu) Bupleurum chinense – Slender umbellifer with yellow-green flower umbels. Roots are a central liver-protective and anti-inflammatory herb in TCM, central to many classical formulae. USDA zones 4–8
Burdock Arctium lappa – Tall biennial with heart-shaped leaves and the famous bristly seed burrs that inspired Velcro. Roots are the Japanese vegetable gobo and a traditional blood-purifying medicinal. USDA zones 2–9
Bush tomato (Akudjura) Solanum centrale – Low desert-adapted Australian native solanum producing yellow-brown sun-dried fruit traditionally harvested by central desert Aboriginal communities. USDA zones 9–12
California poppy Eschscholzia californica – Brilliant orange-flowered native of California, perennial in mild climates and an annual elsewhere. Traditional gentle sedative and analgesic. USDA zones 5–10
Caper bush Capparis spinosa – Sprawling, spiny Mediterranean shrub whose flower buds are pickled as capers. USDA zones 8–11
Cat's claw Uncaria tomentosa – Vigorous tropical Peruvian woody vine with hooked thorns ("cat's claws") at the leaf bases. Inner bark is a traditional Amazonian anti-inflammatory and immunomodulator. USDA zones 9–12
Catnip Nepeta cataria – Mint-family perennial with grey-green leaves and small white flowers. Famously stimulating to most domestic cats. USDA zones 3–9
Chamomile — German Matricaria chamomilla – Annual chamomile — taller and more upright than Roman. The species used for medicinal chamomile tea. USDA zones 2–8
Chamomile — Roman Chamaemelum nobile – Low spreading perennial with apple-scented foliage and small daisy flowers. The traditional "chamomile lawn" plant. USDA zones 3–8
Chinese foxglove (Sheng di huang) Rehmannia glutinosa – Tubular-flowered perennial with rosy-red blossoms. Roots are a major kidney and blood tonic in TCM, used both raw and prepared with different effects. USDA zones 6–9
Chinese skullcap Scutellaria baicalensis – Drought-tolerant blue-flowered perennial with a different chemistry from American skullcap. Roots ("huang qin") are a major TCM anti-inflammatory. USDA zones 4–8
Chives Allium schoenoprasum – Compact clump-forming allium grown for grass-like leaves and edible mauve flower heads. USDA zones 3–10
Chrysanthemum (medicinal) Chrysanthemum morifolium – Cultivated chrysanthemum with edible flowers used in TCM as an eye and liver herb. The same species used widely as an autumn cut flower. USDA zones 5–9
Cinnamon myrtle Backhousia myrtifolia – Hardy eastern-Australian rainforest tree or large shrub with spicy, cinnamon-scented foliage. USDA zones 9–10
Cinnamon tree Cinnamomum verum – Tropical evergreen whose dried inner bark is true cinnamon. USDA zones 10–12
Cleavers (Goosegrass) Galium aparine – Sticky scrambling annual that catches on clothing — and on itself — via tiny hooked hairs. Traditional spring lymphatic tonic; young shoots edible. USDA zones 2–9
Coltsfoot Tussilago farfara – Spring perennial whose yellow flowers emerge before any leaves appear — among the very first wildflowers of the temperate spring. Traditional respiratory herb. USDA zones 3–8
Comfrey Symphytum officinale – Coarse-leaved perennial with deep taproot. A workhorse of permaculture gardens for compost activator, mulch, and chop-and-drop fertility. USDA zones 3–9
Coptis (Chinese goldthread) Coptis chinensis – Low evergreen ground cover with finely divided foliage. Roots carry berberine — the same antimicrobial alkaloid as endangered goldenseal — and are a more sustainable cultivated source. USDA zones 5–8
Coriander (Cilantro) Coriandrum sativum – Fast-growing annual umbellifer producing fresh leafy growth and then white flower umbels and aromatic round seeds. USDA zones 2–11
Cretan mountain mint Clinopodium nepeta – Aromatic Mediterranean herb (lesser calamint) with minty-oregano leaves and a long bee-friendly bloom. USDA zones 5–9
Culinary myrtle Myrtus communis – Aromatic Mediterranean evergreen with white summer flowers and dark, flavouring berries. USDA zones 8–11
Dandelion Taraxacum officinale – Familiar lawn weed and traditional liver and kidney tonic. Every part is edible — leaves in salads, roots roasted as coffee substitute, flowers in syrups and wines. USDA zones 2–10
Dang shen (Poor man's ginseng) Codonopsis pilosula – Twining vine with bell-shaped flowers. Roots are a gentler, less expensive substitute for true ginseng in many TCM formulae. USDA zones 5–8
Desert lime Citrus glauca – Thorny native Australian citrus of arid inland regions. Small green fruit has exceptionally high vitamin C and a sharp distinctive flavour. USDA zones 8–12
Dill Anethum graveolens – Annual umbellifer with feathery blue-green foliage and flat-topped yellow flower umbels. A classic culinary herb and a top companion plant for biological pest control. USDA zones 2–11
Dittany of Crete Origanum dictamnus – Woolly-leaved Cretan endemic with cascading pink flower bracts, brewed as a herbal tea. USDA zones 8–10
Dock — Broad-leaved Rumex obtusifolius – Common pasture weed with deep taproot and broad leaves. Traditional folk remedy for nettle stings — rub the leaves on the skin — and a useful biomass plant for compost heaps. USDA zones 3–9
Dong quai (Chinese angelica) Angelica sinensis – Cool-climate Chinese cousin of European angelica. Roots are one of the most prescribed female-reproductive herbs in traditional Chinese medicine. USDA zones 4–7
Echinacea (Coneflower) Echinacea purpurea – North American prairie native with bold pink-purple coneflowers through summer. Strong bee and butterfly plant. USDA zones 3–9
Elecampane Inula helenium – Architectural perennial reaching 1.5–2 m with sunflower-like yellow flowers. Aromatic root is a traditional respiratory and digestive herb. USDA zones 3–8
Eleuthero (Siberian ginseng) Eleutherococcus senticosus – Cold-hardy Siberian shrub with thorny stems. An adaptogen with similar effects to true ginseng — but in a different genus and far easier to grow. USDA zones 3–8
English lavender Lavandula angustifolia – Compact aromatic Mediterranean shrub. Thrives in poor, well-drained soil and full sun. USDA zones 5–9
Eucalyptus — Blue gum Eucalyptus globulus – Large fast-growing Australian eucalyptus, widely planted globally. Essential oil from the leaves is a traditional respiratory and decongestant remedy. USDA zones 8–11
Eucalyptus — Lemon-scented Corymbia citriodora – Tall eucalyptus with smooth pale bark and lemon-fragrant leaves. Essential oil is dominated by citronellal — a recognised insect repellent. USDA zones 9–11
Fennel Foeniculum vulgare – Tall feathery anise-scented perennial. Valued for foliage, seeds, swollen stem bases (Florence fennel), and as host plant. USDA zones 4–9
Fenugreek Trigonella foenum-graecum – Fast-growing annual legume — Indian culinary herb (methi), a galactagogue medicinal, and an excellent warm-season green manure with a distinctive maple-syrup scent. USDA zones 2–11
Feverfew Tanacetum parthenium – Daisy-flowered perennial historically used for migraine prevention. Leaves and flowers carry the active sesquiterpene parthenolide. USDA zones 5–9
Forsythia Forsythia suspensa – Familiar yellow spring-flowering shrub with a less-known second life as a TCM antiviral ("lianqiao") harvested from the fruit. USDA zones 5–8
French lavender Lavandula dentata – Aromatic Mediterranean lavender with toothed grey foliage, often blooming nearly year-round in mild climates. USDA zones 8–10
Galangal Alpinia galanga – Larger ginger relative widely used in Thai, Indonesian, and Malay cooking. Rhizomes have a sharper, more peppery character than common ginger. USDA zones 8–12
Garlic Allium sativum – Indispensable culinary allium grown from cloves. Hardneck types produce edible flower scapes; softneck types store longer and braid easily. USDA zones 4–9
Garlic chives (Chinese chives) Allium tuberosum – Flat-leaved allium with mild garlic flavour. Important in Chinese, Korean, and Japanese cooking; star-shaped white summer flowers. USDA zones 4–10
Garlic mustard (Jack-by-the-hedge) Alliaria petiolata – Biennial woodland-edge herb with garlic-scented leaves used as a wild salad green. Important early-season food plant for several butterflies. USDA zones 3–8
Ginger Zingiber officinale – Familiar rhizomatous perennial — culinary spice and traditional anti-nausea and anti-inflammatory remedy across many medical traditions. USDA zones 8–12
Ginkgo Ginkgo biloba – Living-fossil tree, the sole survivor of an ancient lineage. Leaves are studied for cognitive and circulatory support; trees are exceptionally tough city plants. USDA zones 3–9
Ginseng — American Panax quinquefolius – North American cousin of Asian ginseng — cooler-climate, gentler tonic, and historically over-harvested from eastern US deciduous forests. USDA zones 3–7
Ginseng — Asian (Korean) Panax ginseng – The original Korean ginseng — slow-growing forest understorey perennial. Roots are among the most prized adaptogens in traditional Chinese and Korean medicine. USDA zones 4–8
Goat's rue Galega officinalis – European perennial herb that yielded the chemistry behind metformin — the most-prescribed type-2 diabetes drug in the world. Pale lilac pea flowers attract bees. USDA zones 4–8
Goldenseal Hydrastis canadensis – Eastern North American woodland perennial. Yellow rhizomes carry berberine — antimicrobial and astringent — and have been so heavily wild-harvested the species is now endangered. USDA zones 3–8
Gotu kola Centella asiatica – Low ground-cover perennial used in both Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine for cognitive support and wound healing. USDA zones 7–12
Greek mountain tea Sideritis – Woolly grey-green Mediterranean herb (ironwort) whose dried flowering stems are brewed as a tea. USDA zones 7–10
Guelder rose Viburnum opulus – European hedgerow shrub with white lace-cap flowers in spring and clusters of bright red translucent berries in autumn. Bark ("crampbark") is a traditional antispasmodic. USDA zones 3–8
Gurmar (Sugar destroyer) Gymnema sylvestre – Tropical climbing vine of South and Southeast Asia. Chewing the leaves temporarily abolishes the perception of sweetness — hence "sugar destroyer". USDA zones 10–12
Haritaki Terminalia chebula – Large tropical Asian tree. Astringent fruit is a major Ayurvedic digestive tonic and one of the three components of the classic triphala formula. USDA zones 9–12
He shou wu (Fo-ti) Reynoutria multiflora – TCM longevity herb taken from prepared (cured) tuberous root. Climbing perennial related to Japanese knotweed. USDA zones 5–9
Holy basil (Tulsi) Ocimum tenuiflorum – Sacred plant in Hindu tradition and a major Ayurvedic adaptogen. Distinct from culinary basil — clove-scented foliage, small purple flower spikes. USDA zones 9–12
Hyssop Hyssopus officinalis – Compact woody Mediterranean herb with deep blue flower spikes and pungent leaves. Underused in modern gardens. USDA zones 3–9
Indian long pepper Piper longum – Tropical climbing vine related to black pepper. Catkin-like fruit is a culinary spice and a known bioenhancer in Ayurveda — increasing absorption of co-administered herbs and pharmaceuticals. USDA zones 10–12
Joe Pye weed Eutrochium purpureum – Tall (2–3 m) clump-forming perennial with mauve-pink flower heads. Traditional urinary tonic; one of the most important late-season nectar plants of the eastern North American garden. USDA zones 4–9
Juliana savory Micromeria juliana – Aromatic Mediterranean subshrub with savory-scented leaves used for tea and cooking. USDA zones 7–10
Juniper Juniperus communis – Variable evergreen conifer ranging from prostrate ground cover to small upright tree. Berry-like cones are the signature flavour of gin and a traditional digestive and urinary herb. USDA zones 2–7
Kakadu plum Terminalia ferdinandiana – Small deciduous tree of the tropical Northern Territory. Pale yellow-green fruit carries the highest measured vitamin C of any food source — around 3000 mg per 100 g. USDA zones 9–12
Kangaroo apple Solanum laciniatum – Soft-wooded Australian native shrub with deeply lobed leaves and orange-yellow fruit. A commercial source of solasodine — a steroid alkaloid used in pharmaceutical cortisone production. USDA zones 8–11
Kawakawa Piper excelsum – Heart-leaved New Zealand native shrub of the pepper family. Leaves are a major Māori medicinal plant, used both topically and as a tea. USDA zones 9–11
Lemon balm Melissa officinalis – Soft-leaved mint relative with strong lemon scent. Used in herbal teas and as a calming traditional medicinal. USDA zones 3–9
Lemon myrtle Backhousia citriodora – Subtropical Queensland native with the highest natural citral content of any plant. Leaves are both culinary (intensely lemon-scented) and medicinal (antimicrobial). USDA zones 9–11
Lemon verbena Aloysia citrodora – South American deciduous shrub with narrow pointed leaves that release an intense pure lemon fragrance when brushed, and clusters of small white-mauve flowers in late summer. Among the most strongly lemon-scented plants in cultivation. USDA zones 8–11
Licorice Glycyrrhiza glabra – Mediterranean leguminous perennial. Sweet roots are a major anti-inflammatory and demulcent in both Western and Chinese traditions; harvest after 3+ years. USDA zones 6–9
Lime — Makrut (Kaffir) Citrus hystrix – Grown primarily for its fragrant double-lobed leaves, an essential aromatic in Thai, Cambodian, and Indonesian cooking. USDA zones 9–12
Linden (Lime tree) Tilia cordata – Large long-lived European tree (the British "lime", unrelated to citrus). Flowers are a classic European nervine tea — calming and mildly sleep-promoting. USDA zones 3–8
Lobelia (Indian tobacco) Lobelia inflata – North American annual with small pale-blue flowers and inflated seed capsules. Historical respiratory and emetic use — known by the unflattering name "puke weed". USDA zones 2–9
Lovage Levisticum officinale – Tall perennial herb with strong celery flavour. One of the larger herbs — a single mature plant occupies a square metre. USDA zones 3–8
Maca Lepidium meyenii – Andean root vegetable from the high Peruvian altiplano (4000+ m). Adaptogenic effects on energy, hormone balance, and fertility. USDA zones 7–9
Magnolia bark (Houpu) Magnolia officinalis – Chinese medicinal magnolia. Bark is the source of magnolol and honokiol — studied for anxiolytic and antidepressant activity. USDA zones 5–9
Manuka Leptospermum scoparium – New Zealand and southeastern Australian native shrub with masses of small white or pink flowers. Source of the famous manuka honey and a strong antimicrobial essential oil. USDA zones 8–10
Marshmallow Althaea officinalis – Tall mallow with soft grey-green leaves and pale pink flowers. Mucilaginous root and leaf are demulcent — soothing for digestive and respiratory tract irritation. USDA zones 3–9
Meadowsweet Filipendula ulmaria – Damp-meadow perennial with frothy creamy flower heads carrying salicylates — the natural precursor that gave aspirin its name (from the old genus Spiraea). USDA zones 3–8
Mexican tarragon (Winter tarragon) Tagetes lucida – Compact Mexican marigold relative with small bright yellow flowers in autumn and aniseed-scented narrow leaves. Used as a heat-tolerant substitute for true French tarragon in cooking. USDA zones 8–11
Milk thistle Silybum marianum – Tall biennial or annual thistle with marbled leaves and pink-purple flower heads. Seeds yield silymarin, the most studied plant compound for liver support. USDA zones 5–9
Mint — Peppermint Mentha × piperita – Sterile hybrid mint with very high menthol content. Primary use is medicinal and as flavouring rather than culinary. USDA zones 3–11
Mint — Spearmint Mentha spicata – The standard culinary mint — sweet, mild, ubiquitous in Middle Eastern, North African and South Asian cooking. USDA zones 3–11
Mitsuba Cryptotaenia japonica – Shade-loving East Asian woodland herb (Japanese parsley) with a mild parsley-celery flavour. USDA zones 4–9
Monarda (Bee balm) Monarda didyma – Showy mint-family perennial with red, pink, or purple flower heads. Traditional Native American antimicrobial and respiratory herb; the source of "Oswego tea". USDA zones 3–9
Moringa (Drumstick tree) Moringa oleifera – Fast-growing subtropical tree of remarkable nutritional value — leaves are exceptionally rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. Drumstick-like seed pods are a south Indian vegetable. USDA zones 9–12
Motherwort Leonurus cardiaca – Tall mint-family perennial with pink-purple flower whorls. Traditionally used as a cardiac tonic and for menstrual symptom support. USDA zones 3–8
Mugwort Artemisia vulgaris – Tall silver-grey aromatic perennial used historically as a digestive bitter and as the herb burned in traditional moxibustion. USDA zones 3–9
Mullein Verbascum thapsus – Striking biennial with a basal rosette of soft fuzzy leaves in year one and a tall flowering spike (1.5–2 m) in year two. Traditional respiratory and ear-infection herb. USDA zones 3–9
Myoga ginger Zingiber mioga – A hardier, shade-loving ginger grown for its aromatic edible flower buds and shoots. USDA zones 6–9
Nasturtium Tropaeolum majus – Trailing or climbing annual with edible round leaves, peppery flowers, and seeds that can be pickled like capers. USDA zones 2–11
Native hemp (Gynatrix) Gynatrix pulchella – Soft-leaved Australian native shrub of cool-temperate riparian forests. Inner bark traditionally used for fibre cordage; medicinal use also recorded. USDA zones 8–10
Native pepperberry Tasmannia insipida – Rainforest pepperberry from eastern Australia with mildly peppery fruit and leaves used as a spice. USDA zones 9–10
Neem Azadirachta indica – Large fast-growing Indian tree. Every part is medicinal, and the seed-derived azadirachtin is one of the best-known botanical insecticides. USDA zones 10–12
Noni Morinda citrifolia – Tropical Pacific island tree producing pungent, ripe-cheese-scented fruit. Fermented juice is a traditional Polynesian medicinal across many island cultures. USDA zones 10–12
Oregano Origanum vulgare – Spreading perennial herb with intense flavour developed best in hot dry conditions. USDA zones 4–10
Parsley Petroselinum crispum – Biennial culinary umbellifer grown for its leaves in the first year. Allow some plants to run to flower in the second year for parasitic wasps and butterfly larvae. USDA zones 4–9
Partridgeberry Mitchella repens – Trailing evergreen ground cover of eastern North American forests. Bright red berries and small white twin flowers. Traditional indigenous childbirth-preparation herb. USDA zones 3–9
Passionflower — Medicinal Passiflora incarnata – Hardy native passionflower of the southeastern US, distinct from the edible passionfruit species. Aerial parts traditionally used for anxiety and insomnia. USDA zones 5–9
Patchouli Pogostemon cablin – Tropical Asian mint relative with broad furry leaves that yield, on drying and ageing, the deep musky patchouli oil that is one of the most enduring fixatives in perfumery. USDA zones 10–11
Pau D'Arco Tabebuia impetiginosa – Large South American tree producing spectacular pink-purple trumpet flowers in spring before leaves emerge. Inner bark contains lapachol — antimicrobial and antifungal. USDA zones 9–12
Peppermint pelargonium Pelargonium tomentosum – South African pelargonium with very large velvety silver-grey leaves that release a strong cool peppermint fragrance when brushed, and small white flowers through summer. USDA zones 9–11
Perennial basil Ocimum gratissimum – Shrubby, clove-scented perennial basil that is more robust and longer-lived than annual basil. USDA zones 10–11
Pine — Scots Pinus sylvestris – Iconic conifer of the European and Asian temperate north, with characteristic orange-red upper bark. Needle and resin essential oils have respiratory and antimicrobial uses. USDA zones 2–7
Pipsissewa Chimaphila umbellata – Low evergreen woodland sub-shrub with whorled glossy leaves and pink waxy flowers. Traditional urinary tract herb of North American Indigenous peoples. USDA zones 3–7
Plantain — Broadleaf Plantago major – Broad-leaved weed of compacted ground worldwide. Traditional poultice for wounds, stings, and minor burns; young leaves edible. USDA zones 2–10
Plantain — Ribwort Plantago lanceolata – Narrow-leaved cousin of broadleaf plantain. Traditionally used as a respiratory expectorant and for soothing sore throats. USDA zones 2–10
Red clover Trifolium pratense – Pink-purple flowering legume long used as a forage crop, nitrogen-fixing cover crop, and herbal source of phytoestrogenic isoflavones. USDA zones 3–9
Red-stem celery Apium graveolens – Red-stemmed celery grown for crisp, flavourful stalks and aromatic leaves. USDA zones 5–9
Rhodiola Rhodiola rosea – Cold-climate Arctic and alpine succulent perennial. Roots are a traditional Russian and Scandinavian adaptogen for cold-stress and altitude. USDA zones 1–7
Roman wormwood Artemisia pontica – Hardy aromatic perennial with finely cut silvery foliage, used to flavour vermouth and bitters. USDA zones 4–9
Rose geranium (Sweet-scented pelargonium) Pelargonium graveolens – South African shrubby pelargonium with deeply cut grey-green leaves that release a strong rose fragrance when brushed. The principal commercial source of geranium essential oil. USDA zones 9–11
Rose-scented pelargonium Pelargonium capitatum – Sprawling South African coastal pelargonium with softly hairy three-lobed leaves carrying a strong rose-and-mint fragrance, and small pink flowers through the warm months. USDA zones 9–11
Rosehip (Dog rose) Rosa canina – Wild European hedgerow rose. Bright red autumn hips carry exceptionally high vitamin C and were the basis of wartime UK rosehip syrup. USDA zones 3–8
Rosemary Salvia rosmarinus – Woody Mediterranean herb with needle-like aromatic leaves. Needs full sun and excellent drainage. USDA zones 7–11
Rowan (Mountain ash) Sorbus aucuparia – Small graceful European tree with feathery foliage and brilliant orange-red berries. Berries are exceptionally high in vitamin C and traditionally used in jellies and tonics. USDA zones 3–7
Saffron crocus Crocus sativus – Autumn-flowering corm whose dried red stigmas are the spice saffron. USDA zones 6–9
Sage — Common Salvia officinalis – Aromatic Mediterranean evergreen sub-shrub with grey-green felted leaves. Strong bee forage when in flower. USDA zones 4–9
Sage — Pineapple Salvia elegans – Mexican origin tender salvia with bright pineapple-scented leaves and brilliant scarlet autumn flower spikes. USDA zones 8–11
Savory of Crete Satureja thymbra – Pungent, thyme-scented Mediterranean subshrub used as a culinary herb and a major bee plant. USDA zones 8–10
Schisandra Schisandra chinensis – Hardy deciduous climbing vine producing red berries known in Chinese as "wu wei zi" — five-flavour fruit. Adaptogenic and liver-protective. USDA zones 3–8
Senna Senna alexandrina – Drought-tolerant North African shrub. Leaves and pods are a powerful stimulant laxative — the source of most over-the-counter laxative preparations. USDA zones 9–12
Shatavari Asparagus racemosus – Climbing Indian relative of edible asparagus with feathery foliage and white fragrant flowers. Roots are a major Ayurvedic female reproductive tonic. USDA zones 7–11
Skullcap — American Scutellaria lateriflora – Slender mint-family perennial of moist North American woodlands. Aerial parts traditionally used as a calming nervine. USDA zones 4–8
Solomon's seal Polygonatum biflorum – Arching woodland perennial with paired white pendant flowers under each leaf node. Rhizomes used in folk medicine for connective-tissue and joint support. USDA zones 3–8
Sorrel — French Rumex scutatus – Compact perennial herb with sharp lemony leaves. One of the first edible greens to reappear in spring. USDA zones 3–9
Spicebush Lindera benzoin – Eastern North American understorey shrub with intensely aromatic bark, leaves, and red berries. Traditional culinary spice and medicinal substitute for tropical spices in colonial kitchens. USDA zones 4–9
Spilanthes (Toothache plant) Acmella oleracea – Sprawling tropical perennial with curious red-and-yellow button flower heads. Chewing the flower head produces a strong tingling, numbing sensation — a topical local anaesthetic. USDA zones 9–11
St John's wort Hypericum perforatum – Yellow-flowered perennial used medicinally for centuries; flowers around the summer solstice. Considered invasive in Australia and parts of North America. USDA zones 3–9
Stinging nettle Urtica dioica – Fierce-looking perennial with stinging hairs that hide one of the most nutritious wild greens. Young shoots cook into a spinach-like vegetable; mature plant is anti-inflammatory. USDA zones 2–9
Strawberry gum Eucalyptus olida – Northern Tablelands eucalypt whose leaves carry a strong strawberry-and-berry aroma used as a bush-food flavouring. USDA zones 8–10
Sweet cicely Myrrhis odorata – Tall ferny-leaved European umbellifer with broad flat heads of white spring flowers and aniseed-scented leaves. A traditional cottage-garden ornamental and a kitchen-garden sweetener. USDA zones 5–7
Sweet clover — White Melilotus albus – Tall biennial legume with intensely fragrant white flower spikes. A major honey plant and one of the deepest-rooted dynamic accumulators of any cover crop. USDA zones 3–9
Sweet clover — Yellow Melilotus officinalis – Yellow-flowered counterpart of white sweet clover with similar habits. Historically used as a wound herb in European folk medicine; same intense vanilla-coumarin scent when dried. USDA zones 3–9
Sweet marjoram Origanum majorana – Sweet, mild Mediterranean culinary herb, more floral and gentle than oregano. USDA zones 7–10
Sweet pittosporum Pittosporum undulatum – Eastern Australian native shrub or small tree with glossy wavy-edged leaves. Bark traditionally used by Aboriginal people; intensely fragrant spring flowers. USDA zones 8–11
Sweet violet Viola odorata – Low-growing ground cover with intensely fragrant deep-purple flowers in earliest spring. Flowers and leaves edible and medicinal. USDA zones 3–8
Tansy Tanacetum vulgare – Aromatic European perennial with feathery foliage and flat clusters of yellow button flowers. Traditional strewing herb and natural insect repellent. USDA zones 3–8
Tarragon — French Artemisia dracunculus – The aromatic tarragon of French cooking — anise-scented, complex, indispensable for béarnaise and chicken dishes. USDA zones 4–9
Tasmanian pepperberry Tasmannia lanceolata – Cool-climate shrub from highland south-eastern Australia with pungent, peppery berries and leaves. USDA zones 7–9
Tea tree Melaleuca alternifolia – Narrow-leaved Australian melaleuca of coastal NSW wallum heath. Steam-distilled essential oil is a widely studied antimicrobial, dominated by terpinen-4-ol. USDA zones 8–11
Thyme — Common Thymus vulgaris – Low-growing Mediterranean sub-shrub. Powerfully aromatic — culinary, medicinal, and a strong bee plant. USDA zones 4–9
Thyme — Lemon Thymus × citriodorus – Lemon-scented thyme hybrid; smaller and slightly less hardy than common thyme. Excellent in fish dishes and roasted vegetables. USDA zones 5–9
Turmeric Curcuma longa – Rhizomatous perennial of the ginger family. The bright orange rhizomes carry curcumin — one of the most studied anti-inflammatory plant compounds. USDA zones 8–12
Valerian Valeriana officinalis – Tall perennial with frothy clusters of pale-pink scented flowers in early summer. Roots are the source of the traditional sleep herb. USDA zones 3–9
Vervain Verbena officinalis – Slender wiry perennial with small pale-lilac flowers. Traditional nervine used in European herbalism for centuries. USDA zones 4–8
Water mint Mentha aquatica – Aromatic native pond-margin mint with rounded purple-pink flower heads in late summer. One parent of cultivated peppermint. USDA zones 3–9
Wharangi (Lemonwood) Pittosporum eugenioides – New Zealand native pittosporum with lemon-scented foliage and pale yellow flowers. Traditional Māori medicinal use and an excellent screening or hedge plant. USDA zones 8–10
Wild bergamot Monarda fistulosa – Lavender-pink flowering monarda of the prairies, more drought-tolerant than its cousin M. didyma. Same medicinal use; better choice for dry gardens. USDA zones 3–9
Wild ginger (North American) Asarum canadense – Heart-leaved woodland ground cover with hidden purple-brown flowers at ground level. Aromatic rhizome smells like ginger but is botanically unrelated. USDA zones 3–8
Willow — Pussy (Goat willow) Salix caprea – Smaller willow with silver catkins — the "pussy willow" of late winter. Same medicinal salicin content as white willow, on a more garden-friendly plant. USDA zones 4–8
Willow — White Salix alba – Large riparian European tree. Bark is the natural source of salicin — the precursor compound that led to the synthesis of aspirin. USDA zones 2–8
Witch hazel Hamamelis virginiana – Multi-stemmed understorey shrub or small tree. Bark and leaves are a powerful astringent — the active in commercial witch hazel toner. USDA zones 3–8
Wormwood Artemisia absinthium – Silvery-leaved Mediterranean perennial. Historically the bittering agent in absinthe; carries the artemisinin-relative thujone. USDA zones 3–8
Yarrow Achillea millefolium – Resilient perennial with finely divided leaves and flat clusters of small flowers in midsummer. Native across both Europe and North America. USDA zones 2–9

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