The Herb Society of America's New Encyclopedia of Herbs & Their Uses is the most comprehensive illustrated encyclopedia of herbs yet produced. With a fresh, new A-Z format for easy reference, it lists the culinary and medicinal properties of each herb alongside all the information you need to cultivate herbs in your own garden. A fresh look at herbs. The HSA New Encyclopedia of Herbs & Their Uses responds to the widespread interest in herbs today and the ways in which they have been used since ancient times. This comprehensive reference work supplies a wealth of information on herbs grown and used all over the world, for gardeners, herbalists, and cooks alike. Quick identification guide. The extensive A-Z of color photographs provides a unique identification guide. In addition to every species familiar to gardeners, it also includes a number of rarely seen examples from remote corners of the globe.

Each photograph is accompanied by a detailed botanical description of the plant's genus and species, its growth habit, size, hardiness, and flowering period. Symbols show the plant's hardiness, the part of the plant that is used, and for what purpose. An illuminating history. The general section gives detailed information on uses of each herb, from domestic applications in cooking, beauty, and medicine to commercial processing in the perfume and food industries. The traditional role of herbs in such varied cultures as Chinese, Ayurvedic, and Native American medicine is also explored. Practical tips for cultivation. Garden designs and planting plans, illustrated with photographs and artworks created especially for this book, gives the gardener a wealth of ideas for planting and growing herbs, which can be adapted for both a smaller plot and a traditional herb garden on the grand scale.