This article is about the most common 5 species of mint. “Mint isn’t just one plant — it’s a whole family of fresh ideas, each with its own personality and flavor.” – The Economic Botanist When you think of mint, you probably imagine that cool, refreshing taste in gum, toothpaste, or tea. But did you…
Scientific name: Mentha× piperita L. Family: Lamiaceae Peppermint is one of those plants that seems to magically appear in kitchens, gardens, and medicine cabinets around the world. Its refreshing aroma, cooling taste, and versatile uses have made it a favorite for centuries. If you’ve ever brewed a cup of peppermint tea, added fresh leaves to a salad,…
Scientific name: Anethum graveolens L. Family: Apiaceae Dill is one of those herbs that makes you wonder why it isn’t in every kitchen. Its bright, feathery leaves and delicate yellow flowers aren’t just easy on the eyes—they carry a distinctive flavor that’s light, slightly tangy, and incredibly versatile. If you’ve ever enjoyed dill pickles, a creamy dill…
Scientific name: Artemisia vulgaris Burm. Family: Asteraceae Mugwort is a fascinating plant that has captured human curiosity for centuries. Whether you’ve encountered it in a wild meadow, a traditional remedy, or even in your kitchen, mugwort is a plant worth getting to know. It’s part of the same family as sage and wormwood, which means…
Scientific name: Thymus vulgaris L. Family: Lamiaceae Thyme might be one of the most familiar herbs in your spice rack, but behind its delicate leaves lies a remarkable botanical story. Hardy, fragrant, and endlessly versatile, Thymus vulgaris has been revered for thousands of years—for healing, cooking, and even courage. In this Plant Compendium entry, we’ll dive into the history,…
Scientific name: Salvia officinalis L. Family: Lamiaceae If you’ve ever cooked with a pinch of savory herbs, there’s a good chance you’ve encountered sage. Known scientifically as Salvia officinalis, sage is a fragrant, woody herb with silvery-green leaves and a slightly peppery, earthy flavor. It’s been cherished for centuries, both in the kitchen and in…
Scientific name: Allium schoenoprasum Regel & Tiling Family: Amaryllidaceae You might know chives as those slender, grass-like herbs that add a fresh, oniony zing to your favorite dishes. But did you know this humble herb is a kitchen staple with a rich history, culinary versatility, and some surprising health benefits? In this Plant Compendium entry, we’re here…
Scientific name: Origanum vulgare L. Family: Lamiaceae You likely know oregano as that aromatic herb sprinkled over pizza, pasta sauces, or salads—but it’s so much more. Oregano is a hardy, fragrant perennial with Mediterranean roots and a remarkable range of uses—from culinary to medicinal to ornamental. In this Plant Compendium entry, we’re diving into everything oregano: how…
Scientific name: Salvia rosmarinus Spenn. Family: Lamiaceae You probably know rosemary as that fragrant herb tucked into roasts, breads, or infused oils—but it’s far more than just a kitchen staple. Rosemary is a resilient, aromatic evergreen with deep cultural roots and a remarkable range of uses, from culinary to medicinal to ornamental. In this Plant…
This article is about exploring how roses are transforming the way we cook and eat. “In the kitchen, a single rose can turn a dish into an experience.” – The Economic Botanist You might be surprised to learn that roses, yes, the same flowers you think of as romantic or decorative, have been quietly making their…
