Rosemary; or to give it its proper name Rosmarinus officinalis. It is member of the mint family and one of the oldest herbs known to mankind. An attractive evergreen plant with 1in flat needle leaves used in cooking for a delicious flavour. It is said to have a number of medicinal qualities including relieving minor aches and pains, healing wounds and improving memory.

Basil: Latin name Ocimum basilicum. Grows in a well drained, moist and rich soil in full sun. As with most herbs looks great in a container. Bushy, leafy stem annual growing 1' to 2' tall. Crush the peppery leaves and use with pasta dishes or blend with pine nuts and Parmesan cheese for a delicious pesto sauce.

Sage: Latin name Salvia officinalis. This silver grey leaved plant grows to 2ft round and can be used for flavouring, stuffing and tea. Can be used as a gargle but if used as a medicine, it can interfere with iron and other mineral absorption and do not use if pregnant or epileptic or have other seizure disorders.

Thyme: Latin name Thymus vulgaris. 1ft tall plant with many small flowers in June and July. Can be used in bouquet garni. Can help with indigestion. Do not use as a medicine if pregnant. A good anticeptic, mouthwash and gargle.

Chamomile: Latin name Chamaemelum nobile (Roman) - Matricaria recutita (German). Use the flowers as tea. Roman variety can be used as a lawn as it grows to around 9in tall and produces a pleasant apple scent when walked on. The German variety grows 2'-3' tall and self seeds. Plant in sun or part shade in a well-drained site. Flowers in the summer. Also conditions and lightens hair colour as well. Make a lawn....

Mint: Latin name mentha spp. This is one of the most versatile herbs. Can be used for sweet and savoury dishes, tea, salads, sauces etc. Best planted in pots or containers and once planted it spreads like wild fire. Well-drained soil in sun or part shade. Plenty of varieties too.

coming - oregano, bay, chives, plus more....