Thyme

Flavorful Plants

Thyme is a Mediterranean herb that thrives in poor soil. Here, five types, including the variegated lemon thyme, are growing together. Using pebbles as mulch keeps the crown from rotting.

Calendula

Calendula is also known as pot marigold or poor man's saffron. The flower petals, when chopped and added to rice or potatoes, add a bright yellow color and a flavor reminiscent of costly saffron.

Lavender

Lavender is cherished for the clean scent of its flowers and leaves. The grayish evergreen leaves are attractive any time of year.

Sage

Sage, long believed to imbue wisdom, is essential seasoning for turkey stuffing. It is semievergreen with gray-green leaves. Yellow 'Icterina' is pictured here.