![Make Syrup When Elderberries are Ripe]()
by herbsocietyofamerica | Jul 25, 2018 | Fragrance, Other Culinary
When I was 8 years old my mother had me join a pre-Girl Scout group in the hopes that I would follow in my big sister’s footsteps and become a full-fledged Girl Scout. My mother was a wonderful troop leader and she found amazing things for us to do and wonderful...
by herbsocietyofamerica | Jul 23, 2018 | Other Culinary
The elder is a scary plant. Oh, sure, it’s hardy and lovely. In June it is crowned with showy, flat umbels of fragrant flowers above its lacy foliage. Later come rich clusters of dark purple fruit, useful as a dye plant and in making delicious pie or jam. It is a...
by herbsocietyofamerica | Jul 16, 2018 | Other Culinary
Verbena, or vervain, is a plant with a very large family of about 250 species, and a long, rich history in its interactions with humans. It has been our companion in pagan sacrifice, in battle, in feasting, in comforting the wounded and in fostering visions. In fact,...
by herbsocietyofamerica | Jul 11, 2018 | Other Culinary
Who knew this hitchhiker would grow into a beautiful tree. My first vitex came tucked in the soil of a plant I purchased long ago. I wasn’t sure of the little sprout that appeared and let it grow. It turned out to be Vitex agnus-castus, my lucky day! This herbal tree...
by herbsocietyofamerica | Jul 9, 2018 | Other Culinary
Everybody loves the story of someone ordinary, much like ourselves perhaps, who becomes a princess, a rock star, a famous and sought after celebrity. With apologies to Meghan Markle, the House Leek did it first. Its botanical name Sempervivuns, “always alive,” hints...
