Herbs

Basil is an annual plant and a favorite of many herb gardeners. It can be grown in the garden or in a container indoors. Basil is known for its smooth, oval leaves with their strong aroma and taste.

Size

• 18-24 inches tall, 18 inch spread
  

Light

• Full sun (may bolt less in partial shade)
  

Water 

• Moist, good drainage

Soil pH 

• Acidic — Alkaline
  

Pruning

• You need to cut off any flowers or buds that appear on your basil plant for it to continue to produce the tender leaves desired for cooking. Once the plant successfully produces flowers and seed, it will turn woody and die off.

USDA Zone

• 10-11, Idaho Annual

Diseases

• Plant disease: Basil, PNW handbooks

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Bee Balm or Monarda is a perennial plant (zones 4 plus) and is popular for it’s brightly colored blooms. Many plant these flowers just for enjoyment or to attract bees and birds to the garden. Bee balm can also be used in teas or distilled as an oil for it’s scent.

Size

• 2-4 feet tall, 2-3 feet spread
  

Light

• Full sun — part shade
  

Water 

• Moist, good drainage to avoid powdery mildew
  

Soil pH 

• Acidic — neutral

Bloom time 

• Summer

Color

• Pink, purple, red
  

Pruning

• Dead heading or removing of dead or dying blossoms can promote continuous blooming.

USDA Zone

• 4-9, annual in cooler zones

Diseases

• Plant disease: Monarda (bee balm), PNW handbooks

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Borage is an annual herb with pretty purple-blue flowers. It has been cultivated for years for its medicinal properties, but also to be used as a garnish and decoration, both fresh and dried. Borage attracts bees with it's purple-blue flowers. Be cautious to deadhead before seed drop if you don't want borage in the same spot next year.

Size

• 1-3 feet tall, 9-18 inches spread

Light

• Full sun — part shade

Water 

• Good drainage

Soil pH 

• Any

Bloom time 

• Summer

USDA Zone

• 2-11

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Burnet is a perennial in zones 4-8, will be an annual in cooler zones. It is grown for it's attractive foliage, fun flowers and for its edible leaves.

Size

• 9-24 inches tall, will continue to spread, each plant can reach 1-2 feet wide

Light

• Full sun — part shade

Water

• Medium, good drainage

Soils pH

• 6.0-8.0

Pruning

• Can divide or cut back

Diseases

• Prone to leaf spot if kept too damp

Preservation and use

• Can use leaves in salad
• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Caraway is a biennial. Plant outside in fall for seeds the next summer.

General care

• Herbs and spices, Oregon State University
  
• Culinary herbal presentation, Utah State University (PDF)
  
• Herb gardening, University of Illinois Urban Extension
  
• Growing herbs at home, University of Missouri Extension
  
• Herb container gardens, Utah State University (PDF)
  
• The Herb Society of America
  
• Aromatic and medicinal plant Index, Purdue University
  
• Growing herbs, Purdue University (PDF)
  
• Growing herbs in the home garden, Cornell University (PDF)
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Size

• .5-2 feet tall
  

Light

• Sun — part shade
  

Water

• Moist, good drainage

Soil pH

• Neutral — alkaline
  

Pruning

• Dead heading or removing of dead or dying blossoms can promote continuous blooming.

USDA Zone

• Biennial, hardy to zone 4
  

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Catnip is often grown for its fun blooms, it's attraction to bees and other pollinators, and for cat owners to please their pets. Catnip is a perennial plant in most of Idaho and will come back with vigor.

General care

• Herbs and spices, Oregon State University
  
• Culinary herbal presentation, Utah State University (PDF)
  
• Herb gardening, University of Illinois Urban Extension
  
• Growing herbs at home, University of Missouri Extension
  
• Herb container gardens, Utah State University (PDF)
  
• The Herb Society of America
  
• Aromatic and medicinal plant Index, Purdue University
  
• Growing herbs, Purdue University (PDF)
  
• Growing herbs in the home garden, Cornell University (PDF)
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University 

Size

• 2-3 feet tall, 2-3 feet spread
  

Light

• Full sun

Water 

• Good drainage

Soil pH 

• Acidic — alkaline
  

Bloom time 

• Spring — fall

Color

• Purple

USDA Zone

• 3-7

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Celeriac is not the same as celery. It can be called root celery or knob celery. It's root has a lovely, crisp celery taste and may be easier to grow in our hot dry summers.

Size

• 3 inches tall

Light

• Full sun — part shade
  

Water 

• Moist to damp
  

Soil pH 

• 6.0-7.0

USDA Zone

• 7 plus for fall sewing

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Chamomile is an annual, but will aggressively reseed itself to come back year after year. Many gardeners enjoy growing chamomile its cute, daisy like flowers and for its uses in teas and cooking. Roman Chamomile is a perennial in zone 5+.

Size

• .5-2 feet tall, 6-12 inches spread

Light

• Full sun

Water 

• Can tolerate moist to dry

Soil pH 

• Acidic — slightly alkaline
  

Bloom time 

• Spring — fall

Color

• White and yellow
  

Pruning

• Dead heading or removing of dead or dying blossoms can promote continuous blooming

USDA Zone

• 2-9, 5 plus for perennial Roman chamomile
  

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Chervil is a sweet herb, often grown to sweeten teas and other drinks. It looks a lot like parsley and is said to taste like parsley and licorice. Chervil will bolt easily, so grow in cooler seasons.

Size

• 6-12 inches tall and wide
  

Light

• Full sun — shade
  

Water 

• Moist, good drainage

Soil pH 

• 6.5-7.0

Pruning

• Remove any flower buds as soon as you see them to keep the plant from bolting
  

USDA Zone

• 3-7

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Chicory is a perennial plant grown for it's root, not to be confused with the leafy vegetable chicory (endive). It has sweet little blue flowers that look like asters.

Light

• Full sun

Water 

• Moist but not wet, higher water needs to not get bitter root
  

Soil pH 

• 5.5-7.0

Bloom time 

• Summer — fall

Color

• Blue, purple

USDA Zone

• 3-10

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Chives are a perennial plant in the onion family. Their tube like leaves are cut for their flavor and added to many dishes. Chives have purple pom-pom like flowers that bloom in the spring. Harvest chives early to avoid woody stems.

Size

• 12 inches tall, will continue to spread wider each year
  

Light

• Full sun — part shade
  

Water 

• Good drainage

Soil pH 

• Acidic — neutral

Bloom time 

• Early summer
  

Color

• Purple

USDA Zone

• 3-9

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Cilantro is an annual herb, grown for both it's leave and it's seeds (coriander) and served in many dishes. Cilantro is fairly easy to grow but will bolt in the hot months of the summer. Many beneficial insects are attracted to the blooms of the cilantro plant.

Size

• up to 2 feet tall, 10-24 inches spread
  

Light

• Full sun — part shade, shadier areas may help prevent bolting.
  

Water 

• Moist, good drainage, does best in loam or plenty of organic matter
  

Soil pH 

• Acidic — neutral

Bloom time 

• Summer

Color

• White

Pruning

• Remove any flower buds as soon as you see them to prevent bolting, unless you are growing for the seeds
  

USDA Zone

• 2-11

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Comfrey is a perennial herb with beautiful small flowers that many gardeners enjoy. It also has a very extensive root system, making it hardy but difficult to get rid of, so plant with caution. Comfrey is toxic to humans and pets, so plant with care

Size

• 1-3 feet tall, .5-3 feet spread
  

Light

• Full sun — part shade
  

Water 

• Good drainage

Soil pH 

• Neutral

Bloom time 

• Spring

Color

• Blue, pink, purple, white

Pruning

• After the first full year, prune comfrey back to just a few inches above the ground to promote young, healthy growth
  

USDA Zone

• 4-8

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Dill is an annual herb that is very easy to grow. In fact, once you start growing it, you may never stop. Though many home gardeners enjoy growing dill for it's fun visual texture and for it's uses in cooking and pickling. Both the seeds and stems can be used in food.

Size

• 2-5 feet tall, 1-3 feet spread
  

Light

• Full sun

Water 

• Good drainage

Soil pH 

• Acidic — neutral

Bloom time 

• Late summer
  

Color

• Yellow

USDA Zone

• 2-11

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Known for its plump bulb and feathery leaves, fennel is grown as a vegetable (bulb) and as an herb or spice (leaves and seeds). Fennel can also be grown for the pure aesthetic of its unique form. Fennel adds a licorice like flavor to dishes when cooked.

General care

• Common fennel, Washington State University
• Fennel, Utah State University
• Fennel in the garden, Utah State University (PDF)
• Choosing and growing adapted vegetable varieties, BUL863
• Designing an edible landscape in Idaho, BUL921
• Short-season vegetable gardening, PNW497
• Spring vegetable planting guide for Idaho, BUL965
• Start seeds indoors with success, CIS1209

Soils and fertility

• Fertilizing gardens, CIS922

Diseases

• Management of vegetable diseases in home gardens, CIS993
• Plant disease: parsnip, PNW handbooks

Pests

• Crop pests: fennel, PNW handbooks

Preservation

• Harvesting and storing fresh garden vegetables, BUL617

Fenugreek is a tender annual in the legume (bean) family. The plant is very similar to clover. Seeds are said to taste like maple syrup.

Size

• 2-3 feet tall

Light

• Full sun — part shade

Water

• Moist, well drained

Soils pH

• 6.0-7.0, well drained loamy soil

Pruning

• As an annual in Idaho, pruning won't be necessary

Diseases

• Susceptible to rust

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Feverfew is a short lived perennial, zones 5-10. Will be an annual in cooler zones of Idaho. This daisy like plant has been cultivated for thousands of yeas on several continents.

Size

• Up to 2 feet tall
  

Light

• Full sun — part shade
  

Water 

• Wet — medium, well drained

Soil pH 

• 6.0-7.0, prefers soil rick in organic material — so add some compost

Bloom time 

• Throughout summer
  

Color

•  White, yellow

Pruning

• Short lived enough that pruning isn't usually necessary

USDA Zone

• 5-10

Diseases

• No notable disease issues

Preservation and use

• Feverfew does bloom significantly more in its second season, so if you're in a cooler zone, consider potting and bringing indoors for winter.
• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Germander is a perennial with many different species. This perennial has pink to purple flowers and smells slightly like sage. Even if you're not into herbs, this can be a fun border plant.

Size

• 1-6 feet tall and wide, depending on variety

Light

• Full sun

Water

• Medium — dry

Soils pH

• 6.0-8.0 pH

Bloom time

• Mid summer

Color

• Blue, pink, purple, white

Pruning

• Can divide after first year, can also be cut back to desired size

USDA Zone

• 5-9

Diseases

• Susceptible to mildew if kept too moist

Preservation and use

• Extensive use of Germander in herbal teas or remedies has been linked to severe liver issues
• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Ginger is a perennial annual in Idaho. Ginger is very popular tuber to use in cooking, especially in Asian cuisine. It's best if purchased in the fall, kept indoors and planted out in the spring. Ginger needs a good 10 month growing season, so in many parts of Idaho, some of it's growing with have to be done indoors or in a greenhouse type situation.

Size

• 3-4 feet tall, in warmer zones, rhizomes will spread

Light

• Full sun — part shade

Water

• Plenty of water, but not soggy

Soils pH

• Needs organic rich soil — do not skimp on compost or fertilizer

Diseases

• Susceptible to bacterial wilt

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Horehound is a perennial in zones 3-9, so almost every zone in Idaho. Horehound is especially known for its namesake candy made from the herb with its bitter licorice like flavor.

Size

• 30 inches tall, will spread

Light

• Full sun

Water

• Very drought tolerant

Soils pH

• Will grow in almost any soil

Bloom time

• All through summer

Color

• Flower is white to yellow, nondescript

Pruning

• Can trim to desired size

Diseases

• Not susceptible to any notable diseases

Preservation and use

• Horehound in the Garden, Utah State University
• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Horseradish is a perennial plant in Idaho. This plant is grown for its roots with their spicy, tangy bite. This plant will spread readily, so plant with caution.

Size

• 12-18 inches tall

Light

• Full sun

Water

• Drought tolerant

Soils pH

• 6.0-7.5

USDA Zone

• 3-9

Diseases

• Can be susceptible to verticillium wilt

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Lavender is a perennial, though there are many varieties that will not tolerate cooler climates in Idaho. This is a favorite plant for its beautiful purple blooms and strong scent. Many home gardeners enjoy growing lavender.

Size

• 1-3 feet tall and wide, will get wider each year

Light

• Full sun

Water

• Well drained soil, drought tolerant

Soils pH

• 6.5-8.0

Bloom Time

• Throughout summer

Color

• Blue, purple, white

Pruning

• Bunches of lavender can be harvested for the flowers and leaves. Bunches should be cut back slightly each spring to eliminate the winter die-off and give pleasing shape.

USDA Zone

• some 5-9, some are only hardy to zone 7 and some special varieties are now hardy to zone 4 

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Lemon balm is a perennial in the mint family, meaning it will grow vigorously and spread.  Bees love this flower and people enjoy the smell.

Size

• Up to 3 feet tall, will spread

Light

• Full sun

Water

• Moist, well drained

Soils pH

• 6.5-7.0

Bloom Time

• Mid summer

Color

• Purple, white

USDA Zone

• 4-9

Diseases

• Can get powdery mildew — take care to not over water to avoid mildew

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Lemongrass is a perennial but only in very warm climates, not in Idaho. It can still be enjoyed as an annual throughout the summer. The smell is wonderful and it grows as a nice bunch grass.

Size

• Up to 3 feet tall in Idaho summers

Light

• Full sun

Water

• Lemongrass comes from tropical environments and thus needs quite a bit of water

Soils pH

• 6.5-7.0

USDA Zone

• 9-10

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Lemon Verbena is a perennial plant, but lives as an annual in all zones of Idaho. This plant is grown for its pretty little flowers and wonderful smell. This is a great plant to put in pots and planters, and can be grown indoors with plenty of light.

Size

• Shrubs can reach enormous sizes, but when grown as an annual, it will not achieve its full potential, only reaching about 12 inches tall and spreading along the ground

Light

• Full sun

Water

• Moist

Soils pH

• 6.5

Bloom Time

• Throughout summer

Color

• Blue, pink, purple, red, white

USDA Zone

• 8 plus, annual in Idaho

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Licorice root is a perennial in only the warmest zones of Idaho. It can be grown as an annual in cooler zones. This is a large plant with fun flowers and a delicious smell.

Size

• Up to 6 feet tall, will spread

Light

• Full sun — part shade

Water

• Drought tolerant

Soils pH

• 5.5-8.2

Bloom Time

• All summer

Color

• Pink, purple, white

Pruning

• Can prune to desired size

USDA Zone

• 6-11

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Lovage is a large perennial plant. This herb is very popular for cooking in Europe, with a celery like flavor and maple syrup smell. The fun-shaped leaves make a fun addition to a vegetable garden or decorative flower garden.

Size

• Up to 6 feet tall, 2 feet wide

Light

• Full sun

Water

• Moist, well drained — may need extra water to not wilt in extreme heat

Soils pH

• 6.0-7.0

Color

• White, yellow, nondescript

Pruning

• Can cut back as needed throughout the summer

USDA Zone

• 3-9

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Sweet marjoram is a popular herb in Mediterranean cuisine. This interesting herb can be grown as an annual in Idaho. Marjoram is similar to Oregano, though not as hardy.

Size

• 1-2 feet tall, will spread a little throughout summer

Light

• Full sun

Water

• Medium — dry

Soils pH

• 6.7-7.0

Bloom Time

• Later summer

Color

• Purple, white

USDA Zone

• 7 plus, grown as annual in Idaho 

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Mint is a hardy and voracious perennial in most places in Idaho. There are many types of mint that can be grown — know what you are getting. Also be aware that mint will spread and take over any area you put it in.

Size

• 12-24 inches tall, will spread a lot

Light

• Full sun

Water

• Moist

Soils pH

• 6.0-7.5

Bloom Time

• Mid summer into fall

Color

• Pink, purple, white

Pruning

• Can cut more vigorously to prevent spreading — you may want to deadhead flowers to reduce reseeding

USDA Zone

• 3-11

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Oregano is a perennial in most zones of Idaho. It's a small woody shrub with little purple flowers and a gorgeous smell. This is a good addition to herb beds and ornamental beds.

Size

• Up to 2 feet tall and 18 inches wide

Light

• Full sun

Water

• Drought tolerant, once established

Soils pH

• 6.5-7.0

Bloom Time

• Mid summer into fall

Color

• Blue, pink, purple, white

Pruning

• If harvesting for leaves — you will want to pinch off flowers as they come on

USDA Zone

• 5-10

Diseases

• Can be susceptible to fungal issues if kept too wet

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Parsley is a popular annual plant to grow for the kitchen. There are many different varieties to try. They smell nice and have fun foliage to add texture to your garden.

Size

• 12-24 inches tall

Light

• Full sun

Water

• Moist

Soils pH

• 6.0-7.0

Bloom Time

• Will bloom in early summer, but blooms need to be pinched off and kept at bay if you will harvest the parsley for eating

Color

• White

Pruning

• Harvest regularly and pinch off any flowers before they bloom

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Patchouli is a voracious perennial that thrives in acidic soils — making it unsuitable to grow in much of Idaho. It is a popular herb grown for its smell. It thrives in warmer zones and will be an annual in all parts of Idaho.

Size

• 1-3 feet tall

Light

• Full sun

Water

• Moist, well drained

Soils pH

• 5.5-7.5

Bloom Time

• Mid summer

Color

• White

USDA Zone

• 9 plus

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Rosemary must be grown indoors or as an annual in many parts of Idaho. This is a very popular herb to grow for home cooking. It needs lots of sun, making it difficult (but not impossible) to grow indoors.

Size

• Can achieve large size in warmer zones when grown as a perennial — 6 feet tall and 4-5 feet wide. It will not reach that potential in cooler zones staying closer to 12-24 inches tall and 12 inches wide.

Light

• Full sun

Water

• Moist

Soils pH

• 6.0-7.0

Bloom Time

• Early summer

Color

• Blue, pink, purple, white

Pruning

• Should be pruned in fall to control size and promote vigorous fresh growth in the new year

USDA Zone

• 6b plus

Diseases

• Susceptible to fungal diseases, don't over water

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Saffron is a perennial corm that blooms very early in the year. The stamens are harvested for culinary use. Less hardy than most crocus.

Size

• Up to 6 inches tall

Light

• Full sun

Water

• Good drainage, medium needs

Soils pH

• 6.8-7.8

Bloom Time

• Late winter — early spring

Color

• Purple

USDA Zone

• 5-8

Diseases

• Rodents love, susceptible to mites

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Sage is a perennial in most parts of Idaho. This small, woody shrub is popularly grown for its culinary use, but is also a lovely plant with soft leaves and purple flowers.

Size

• Up to 2 feet tall, up to 3 feet spread

Light

• Full sun

Water

• Moderate water needs

Soils pH

• 6.0-7.0

Bloom Time

• Mid to late summer

Color

• Blue, pink, purple

Pruning

• Prune back to desired size

USDA Zone

• 4-8, variety dependent

Diseases

• Susceptible to leaf spot, especially when over watered

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Savory is an annual herb, popular in French cuisine. This plant has a similar look to flax with spindly leaves and small flowers. A fun addition to any herb garden.

Size

• 12-24 inches tall

Light

• Full sun

Water

• Good drainage, somewhat drought tolerant

Soils pH

• 6.7-7.3

Bloom Time

• Throughout summer

Color

• Pink, purple, white

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Star Anise is a perennial in warmer zones of Idaho. It can be grown as an annual in cooler zones, but needs a long growing season to produce seed pods.

Size

• A sizeable shrub when grown in warm zones — up to 15 feet tall.

Light

• Full sun — full shade

Water

• High water needs

Soils pH

• 6.3-7.0

Bloom Time

• Spring

Color

• Pink, red, white

Pruning

• Doesn't need to be pruned, but can be hedged or in the technique of espalier.

USDA Zone

• 6-9

Diseases

• Susceptible to downy mildew

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Stevia is grown as an annual in Idaho. Start indoors for best results as stevia require a long growing season. Stevia is grown for its sweet leaves. 

Size

• In one growing season, up to 2 feet tall and 12 inches spread

Light

• Full sun

Water

• Moist, well drained

Soils pH

• 6.5-7.5

Bloom Time

• Late summer into fall

Color

• White, insignificant

USDA Zone

• 8 plus

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Tarragon is a perennial in most zones of Idaho. This large, herbaceous plant is mostly grown for culinary use, but can add textural variety to flower beds with it's thin, wispy leaves. Some varieties are also very fragrant, especially in the wind.

Size

• Up to 4 feet tall, will spread in width from year to year, up to 12 inches spread the first year

Light

• Full sun — part shade

Water

• Dry, will not tolerate wet soil

Soils pH

• 6.5-7.5

Bloom Time

• Late summer

Color

• White, yellow, insignificant

Pruning

• can prune to the ground regularly

USDA Zone

• 4 plus

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Thyme is a perennial in many zones of Idaho. There are many varieties of thyme from the shrub variety grown for culinary use to the creeping thymes used as ground cover for their hardiness and drought tolerance.

Size

• Very variety dependent, some can reach up to 12 inches tall and 12 inches spread, some remain very low growing but spread rapidly

Light

• Full sun

Water

• Drought tolerant

Soils pH

• 6.0-8.0

Bloom Time

• Early summer

Color

• Blue, pink, purple, white

Pruning

• Can prune back to desired size

USDA Zone

• 5 plus

Diseases

• Susceptible to fungal conditions, especially if kept in damp conditions

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Turmeric will grow well only in the very warmest zones of Idaho. Turmeric needs 8-10 months of growth to develop the tuber needed for culinary use. Turmeric can be grown in a container setting, but needs very good drainage and ample sunlight, making growth indoors challenging. Turmeric also prefers a slightly acidic soil, making it difficult to grow in many regions of Idaho with alkaline soil and water.

Size

• Up to 3 feet tall

Light

• Full sun — part shade

Water

• Good drainage, doesn't like to be wet, but drought stress during the bulk of tuber growth will result in an undesirable tuber

Soils pH

• 5.5-6.5

Bloom Time

• Late summer

Color

• Pink, red, white

USDA Zone

• 8-10

Diseases

• Susceptible to rhizome rot, bacterial wilt

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University

Valerian is a perennial herb, grown for it's interesting showy flowers. Use extreme caution with valerian as ingestion can cause adverse side effects. 

Size

• Up to 5 feet tall, will spread over time, can become weedy

Light

• Full sun — part shade

Water

• Moderate, good drainage

Soils pH

• 6.0-7.0

Bloom Time

• Early summer

Color

• Pink, red, white

Pruning

• Should be cut down in fall

USDA Zone

• 3-9

Preservation and use

• Aromatic and medicinal plant index, Purdue University
  
• Homegrown teas, University of Vermont Extension
  
• Edible flowers, Colorado State Extension (PDF)
  
• Edible flowers, Iowa State University Extension (PDF)
  
• Herbs: Preserving and using, Colorado State University
  
• Kitchen herb garden, Washington State University