Herb garden plants are diverse. They can be annuals, perennials, or biennials as you see in other types of plants.

There are hundreds of different types of herbs, some used frequently and many not so well known.

Herbs are not difficult to grow but you should find out a little about the ones you are interested in growing so that you know how to take care of them. This article will get you started in understanding general different types of herb plants and what they are used for.

Some annuals like basil, cilantro, and summer savory will not survive a frost. They need to be planted from a seed or a small plant every year. Perennials like sage and winter savory can survive colder temperatures and will return year after year. Biennial herbs are plants that form leaves in their first growing season and flowers and seed in the second season, then die. Biennial herbs like parsley, angelica, or caraway should be sown in late spring directly into the garden.

Herbs are also grouped into the categories for which they are used. Culinary herbs are probably the most widely grown and used by herb gardeners. Different national cuisines rely often on herbs to gain their own particular flavors. Herbs with strong flavors, herbs like chives, thyme, basil, sage, savory, and marjoram are generally used in small quantities to add flavor to different types of food. Parsley is an extremely popular herb that is used both in food and also as a garnish.

Aromatic herbs have pleasant smelling flowers or foliage. Oils from aromatic herbs such as loyage, mint, and rosemary can be used to make different types of perfumes, toilet water, and can be added to candles and soaps for instance. Parts of aromatic herb plants used intact can also be used in the home to scent linens or clothing. They can also be dried and made into potpourri which will enable them to be able to retain their aroma for a long period of time. Lavender and lemon verbena are great herbs to use for potpourri.

Some herbs are used for medicinal purposes. For centuries herbs were the people’s pharmacy both to cure illness and to promote health. Present medical knowledge recognizes that certain herbs are beneficial to one’s health. However, herbs used for medicinal purposes should be used carefully. Some herbs are harmless but others can be dangerous if eaten.

Some herbs are grown simply for their beauty. They may also have practical uses but this is not what is valued. Ornamental herbs have brightly colored flowers and foliage. Many have whitish or various light colored flowers like valerian which has crimson blossoms and borage and chicory which grow gorgeous blue flowers.

Herbs are also useful in other ways. For example, mint may be used for pest control.

While herbs can be categorized into different categories by what they are valued for, many herbs have multiple purposes. Whatever the reason you have an interest in herbs, by understanding herb garden plants you are able to pick the herbs that will be most useful to you.

Good herbs gardening!