Here are plants that I strongly urge beginning herbalists in my classes to cultivate in their gardens for ready access. (I live just south of Minneapolis, MN in USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 4).
I am happy to share any extra plants I have with anyone living in the area and able to stop by and pick them up.
More in-depth information on the Forum!
I do not ship plants.
Calendula
Annual, but reseeds nicely
Very easy to grow
I prefer "Erfurter Orange" from Richters
California Poppy
Annual, but reseeds nicely
I've read that the orange flowered variety is best
Chamomile, (Richters - Bodegold)
Annual, but reseeds nicely
I prefer "Bodegold" from Richters
Echinacea
Perennial
Echinacea purpurea is easy to grow in our area
There is debate in the herbal world about whether E. purpurea or E. angustifolia are "best"
Lemon Balm
Perennial that spreads readily so plant wisely
Marshmallow
Perennial, spreads nicely
Oats
Annual
I like to plant this one as it is best tinctured in its milky oats stage, which lasts for only 1 week of the summer, so I want it readily accessible to watch for the perfect gathering time.
Spilanthes / Cress, Toothache/ Plant (Achmella olerancea)
Annual, reseeds occasionally
Very easy to grow
St. John’s Wort
Perennial
Considered a noxious weed in some areas - check your local regulations
Tulsi/Holy Basil
Annual, will need to plant every year
There are 4 different types of tulsi. I prefer the Krishna variety, but it is really a matter of personal preference
Yarrow, white
Perennial
There are several very good companies that offer organic seeds/plants for growing medicinal herbs.
I've fallen into the habit of ordering from :
Strictly Medicinal Seeds: https://strictlymedicinalseeds.com
Richters: https://www.richters.com
