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Herbs - Ladys Mantle to Lovage

Lady's Mantle

(Alchemilla vulgaris)

A hardy perennial that grows to 1ft (30cm). It has pleated fan-like leaves and small yellow flowers. It will grow in most types of soil but prefers a rich moist soil in a slightly shady position.
Sow seeds in spring. Take cuttings or root divisions in spring.

Harvesting

Pick leaves as required.

Uses

The leaves are used to make a tisane.

Lavender

(Lavendula officianalis)

A perennial shrub that grows to 2ft (60cm). It has grey green needle like leaves and spikes of purple flowers. It is heavily scented. It will grow in most types of soil but prefers a sunny position. Sow seeds under glass in spring. Take cuttings in summer. After flowering clip the bush back to keep a good shape and encourage new growth. Do not cut into older wood or the plant will not produce new growth. Replace plants every 5 years.

Harvesting

Cut the flower spikes as they come into flower and dry in a dark place to keep their colour.

Uses

Grown for its ornamental value. It is a very good plant for attracting bees.

Lemon Balm

(Melissa officianalis)

A hardy perennial that grows to 4ft (1.2m). It has deep green leaves and smells strongly of lemon. It will grow in most types of soil but prefers a sunny position. Sow seeds in spring or take root cuttings in spring or autumn. The roots are extremely invasive so it is best grown in some form of container.

Harvesting

Pick fresh leaves as required. Stems can be cut at the end of summer and hung to dry for storing.

Uses

The lemon flavour compliments stewed fruit, fish and poultry. The dried leaves can be used to make a tisane.

Lemon Verbena

(Lippia citriodora)

A tender perennial that can grows to 10ft (3m). It has long pointed leaves and small mauve flowers. It will grow in most types of soil but prefers a sunny sheltered position. Take stem cuttings in late spring. Protect from frost in winter.

Harvesting

Collect the leaves as they fall from the plant in autumn.

Uses

The fresh leaves are used to make sauces, salads and fruit dishes. The dried leaves can be used to make a tisane.

Lovage

(Levisticum officianale)

A giant perennial that grows to 6ft (2m). It has yellow flowers in summer. It prefers a rich moist soil in semi-shade. Sow seeds on spring or take root cuttings in spring or autumn.

Harvesting

Pick fresh leaves as required. Drying can be difficult and needs to be very slowly. Gather seeds as they ripen.

Uses

Both seeds and leaves will enrich salads, soups, sauces and stews. The celery like flavour is strong so use sparingly.