Spices And Herbs - Beautiful Plants - Great Flavor In Foods

Spices and Herbs represent a common bond around the world. There are hundreds and hundreds of plant specimens in each of these families. The plants are grown in a variety of climates in many different geographic locations. From the sowing of the seeds, to maintaining the plants health, harvesting and processing, each of these steps create a wonderful delight in both a landscape garden and in kitchens and restaurants around the globe. I have added another section in landscape solutions for you to enjoy. Previously I have done articles on herbs and lately have been introducing spices. A goal is to provide you with basic information about different plant specimens. Each of these plant classifications have been around for centuries in many different countries. Using these plants for nourishment as well as medicinal purposes have been passed down from generation to generation in so many different cultures.

Ground Cayenne

Lamb's - Ears

Above are two photos of each of these plant groups. The ground Cayenne is used in so many different Mexican dishes as well as many other cultures adding the seeds or ground varieties to their culinary dishes. Below is also a page on the Cayenne Pepper plant. The Lamb's - Ears previously had some medicinal value, but today it's primary role is an ornamental beauty in a garden as well as attracting butterflies and bees. The soft textured stalk with eloquent purple flowers are cut and used in many different type of floral arrangements. The Lamb's - Ear is considered an herb.

I have studied and research plants for years. I am still constantly learning about new techniques as well as different uses for many plants. In this new section I will be adding on photos and pages in the months to come.

Many plants are classified as herbs. A lot of people when they think of herbs, they think of the standard culinary herbs. Take a look at the gallery section on the page photos of eight basic culinary herbs. These eight herbs are considered some of the main everyday cooking herbs. There are so many more herbs that not only have great culinary value, but produce wonderful foliage as well as cut flowers or blossoms for you to enjoy in your gardens.

Spices also are very similar. In your individual country or region, you have basic seeds or ground varieties you use everyday. Many of these plants can also be used in different landscape areas. As I continually add on to this section, take a look at garden projects and see if any of these spices will fit into your landscape plan.

I am very excited about doing this section for you. I also will be adding a page where we all can share information and stories of specific herbs and spices in our own geographic location.

Seeds From Basic Spices Create Great Culinary Dishes
Seeds from these basic plants add wonderful flavor to a normal dish. You can also share your recipe or knowledge with others.

The Cayenne Pepper - Beautiful Plant And A Spicy Delight
The Cayenne pepper is a wonderful indoor and outdoor plant. The Cayenne pepper is also known for its spicy flavor in many Mexican and Cajun cuisines. Learn a few basic facts about the Cayenne pepper.

Ginger, Nutmeg and Cloves - Three More Savory Spices
Ginger, Nutmeg and Cloves are three more popular spices to use in cooking and culinary dishes. Read up on these three unique plants. All three are great in different culinary dishes as well as baked goods.

Mustard - Whole Seeds, Ground, Or Prepared Is A Great Spice For Everyone
The Mustard Plant produces a variety of different color seeds and are used today in many culinary dishes. Here is some information on Mustard and how you can use the leaves, seed or the ground version.

Herbs Growing from Seed
Growing herbs from seeds can be so rewarding! You can watch the seeds grow into plugs and finally into beautiful plants. There are a couple of special techniques to achieve happy and healthy herbs, and flowers too.

Leaves from Fresh Herbs Can Create Wonderful Vinegars
Making herb vinegars are easy and quick. Use rosemary, garlic chives, fresh garlic and a few other herbs, and you will have a wonderful tasting vinegar for beef, or pork roasts.

Eight Culinary Herbs
Culinary herbs are wonderful to use in a variety of dishes. Here are eight easy herbs to use. Each of them are unique in color, texture and aroma. Start cooking now!

Drying Your Herbs To Preserve And Enjoy
Drying your herbs will preserve the leaves. Sow, Grow and Preserve. Does this sound a little odd to you? These plant species are wonderful and easy to grow, to maintain, and to dry.

Simple Step By Step Guide In Doing Several Herb Gardens In One Landscape Area
A step by step guide for several herb gardens in one landscape area. Learn simple ways to create beds and plant a variety of herbs. Worth reading this landscape article.

Basic Healing and Holistic Information on Eight Herbs
Healing information on eight basic herbs. Here are some basic suggestions for safe use of eight herbs. These eight herbs are also basic eight culinary herbs.

Mint - One Of The Largest Herb Families
The Mint family has a variety of different species. Mint produces a great aroma as well as creating wonderful flavor for some drinks, sauces, candies and meats.

Tarragon And Coriander - Great Plants For Culinary Dishes
Tarragon and Coriander are superb spices for a variety of culinary dishes. Tarragon is a great perennial plant and the fresh leaves provide great aroma and flavor in many cultural foods. Take a look at these two delightful spices.

Horseradish Is An Old Time Herb And Adds Zest To Culinary Dishes
Horseradish is great prepared or using its grated roots in culinary dishes. Horseradish is a perennial herb and is grown in many different parts of the world.

Celery Is A Medicinal Herb As Well As A Vegetable
Celery has been known for being a great medicinal herb as well as have a wonderful flavor for many culinary dishes. The stalks and seeds provide us with great nutritional value.

The Leaf From A Bay Or Laurel Tree Is Wonderful In Culinary Dishes
The Leaf from the Bay or Laurel Tree provide a great flavor and aroma. These trees are evergreen and not only look great in herb gardens, but also are used in a variety of culinary dishes throughout the world.

Caraway Leaves Are A Great Vegetable, And The Seeds Flavor Many Dishes
Caraway leaves are used as a vegetable in many European countries. Caraway seeds germinate slowly but the rich aroma from the root, stem and leaves makes this plant a wonderful addition to any garden.

Garlic Is Very Popular And Many Cultures Use This Herb
Garlic is used in a variety of culinary dishes. Garlic can be grown in any style garden and a very popular herb today.

Lemon Balm - A Great Aroma Herb In The Mint Family
Lemon Balm is one of the most aroma herbs. Lemon Balm is considered a perennial and grows well in most climates. Learn a few facts on this great smelling herb.

Seasoning Vegetables, Poultry, And Meats With Different Natural Plants
Seasoning vegetables and different meats with a variety of herbs and spices can create wonderful dishes for your friends and family. Professional chefs use these natural plants everyday. Share your favorite herb and spice recipe with others.

Allspice Is Native to Jamaica, Central America and The West Indies
Allspice is a universal spice used in a variety of dishes. Allspice comes from a large beautiful evergreen tree. Learn a few facts on this wonderful spice that not only produces a wonderful flavor, but has a delightful aroma.

Cinnamon Is One Of The Oldest Spices And Still Popular Today
Cinnamon is considered on of the oldest spices. It has a wonderful aroma as well as culinary use. There are two different varieties that are grown. You can use it in a ground form or sticks, which are also called quills.

The Shallot Is A Member Of The True Onion Family
The Shallot is not really a true spice. It is an herb and a member of the true onion family. Here a few basic facts on the Shallot and a couple of photos for you to see.

Turmeric Is The Main Ingredient In Curry Powder
Turmeric is a very flavorful spice in many culinary dishes. Turmeric is a member of the Ginger family and is grown in several different tropical locations.

Fennel Is An Old Herb And A Member Of The Parsley Family
Fennel is an herb that has been around for centuries. Fennel has three varieties for the everyday garden. The leaves, stalk, root and seeds are all used in culinary dishes today.

The Leek Is A Member Of The Onion Family
The Leek is a member of the onion family. The leaves, stalks and roots of Leeks create a sweet flavor. I enjoy making a homemade vegetable soup and using Leeks as one of the ingredients.

Pine Nuts Are Found In The Cones From The Tree
Pine nuts are found in many different species of pine trees. The Pine nuts are found inside Pine cones. These trees grow well in climate zones of one through ten in the United States. They are a native tree in China.

Asparagus Is Actually Considered An Herb And A Vegetable
Asparagus is a member of the Lily family. It is slow to grow in a garden, but is a wonderful nutritional herb and vegetable. Asparagus is native to England, Poland and the former USSR.

Artichoke Is Native To The Mediterranean Region And Also An Herb
The Artichoke is a great source of vitamins. Artichokes are native to the Mediterranean region as well as Spain, France and Italy. The Artichoke can be ground from seed as well as shoots. Here is some basic information on the Artichoke herb.

A Dried Mushroom - Wood Ear Enhances Many Culinary Dishes
The Wood Ear fungus dried mushroom adds a great texture and unique flavor to many culinary dishes. This dried mushroom is a wonderful herb for stir fries, soups and stuffings. Learn a little about the Wood Ear.

Yarrow Is A Perennial Herb With Different Colored Flowers
Yarrow is a great perennial herb and is native to Europe, Asia, Canada and grows well in zones three through nine in the United States. It can grow in many different soil conditions. Great herb plant for your garden.

Fragrant Leaves From Herbs Provide A Delightful Smell
Fragrant leaves from herbs can provide you with a wonderful smell in a container garden out outdoor garden. The fragrant leaves can also be used in sachets and potpourri. Here are a few fragrant herb leaves for you.

Primrose - The Evening Variety Has A Delicate Pink Flower
The Evening Primrose has a delightful dainty pink flower. It grows well in a variety of climate zones. The Primrose is known for its possible medicinal benefits in some medical conditions and diseases.

Recipes Using Herbs Can Create Tasty Appetizers
Recipes using herbs with other ingredients for appetizers can be not only fun but very delicious. Having appetizers before dinner, or create an entire meal out of herb based appetizers. Take a look at three simple herb base appetizers.

Star Anise Is A Wonderful Spice Native To China, India, And Other Countries In Asia
The Star Anise is a wonderful spice native to China, Japan, and India. It has a strong taste and aroma. The Star variety is grown from ornamental evergreen trees. A great flavor in chicken, vegetable and many other culinary dishes.

Chamomile - One Of The Oldest And Very Fragrant Herbs
Chamomile is a great fragrant herb. Many European countries take pride in their Chamomile tea. Roman or English Chamomile is a great ground cover. Chamomile is a member of the Daisy family. Learn a little more about this wonderful herb specimen.