Herb Garden

Plantings in the culinary bed include several kinds of Basil, Tarragon, and Thyme as well as Marjoram, Lemongrass, Lovage, Allspice, and Oregano.

Plants in the tussie-mussie bed include Borage and Sweet Alyssum. Tussie-mussies are small handheld bouquets of scented flowers and herbs that have special meaning for the recipients. Interpretive signs explain the meanings of the different flowers. Borage, for example, means “bluntness,” while the meaning of Sweet Alyssum is “worth beyond beauty.”

Herb Garden Collections

The Southern California climate allows The Huntington to grow many herbs and even some spices not found in traditional herb gardens. These include, but are not limited to, plants that produce coffee, tea, mate, hops, and jojoba. Many larger and shade loving herbs are planted outside the beds, along the perimeter of the garden. Some plants are not included due to size, adaptability, or threat to the environment (invasiveness, toxicity, etc.).