What are Woody Herbs? Understanding the Concept of Perennial Shrubs

If you're an avid gardener or have a passion for plants, you might be familiar with the term "woody herbs". While it may sound like an oxymoron, woody herbs are a unique type of plant that carries properties of both perennial shrubs and traditional herbs. In this article, we'll explore what exactly woody herbs are, their benefits, how to grow them, and more.

The Definition of Woody Herbs

Woody herbs are a type of plant that possesses characteristics of both perennial shrubs and traditional herbs. These types of plants are often characterized by their stem structure, which is typically woody and persistent throughout the year. This means they don't die back to the ground every winter, like traditional herbs do. However, they still maintain some of the medicinal and culinary properties that traditional herbs possess, making them a popular choice among herbalists and chefs alike.

The Benefits of Growing Woody Herbs

There are many benefits to growing woody herbs in your garden or on your property. Some of these benefits include:

• Perennial Growth: As mentioned earlier, woody herbs maintain their stem structure year-round. This means you won't need to replant them every year, like you would with traditional herbs. Once established, woody herbs will continue to grow and produce foliage for years to come.
• Medicinal Properties: Many woody herbs possess medicinal properties that can aid in healing various ailments. For example, lavender has been shown to help with anxiety and promote relaxation, while rosemary has been known to improve memory and concentration.
• Culinary Purposes: Woody herbs are also commonly used in cooking due to their distinct flavors and aromas. Thyme, for example, adds a savory flavor to meats and vegetables, while sage is often used in stuffing and other Thanksgiving dishes.
• Aesthetic Value: Woody herbs can also add an aesthetic element to your garden, with their unique stem structure and foliage creating a visually appealing display.

Growing Woody Herbs: Tips and Tricks

Now that you understand what woody herbs are and their benefits, you may be interested in growing some in your own garden. Here are a few tips and tricks to get you started:

• Choose the Right Location: Woody herbs prefer well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. Be sure to choose a location in your garden that provides both.
• Plant in the Spring: Woody herbs should be planted in the spring, after the threat of frost has passed. This will give them ample time to establish themselves before winter hits.
• Prune Regularly: Since woody herbs maintain their stem structure year-round, it's important to prune them regularly to promote healthy growth and prevent disease.
• Harvest Properly: When harvesting woody herbs for culinary or medicinal purposes, be sure to harvest only the top third of the plant. This will encourage healthy growth and prevent damage to the plant.

Common Types of Woody Herbs

There are many types of woody herbs to choose from, each with its own unique flavor and medicinal properties. Here are just a few:

Rosemary: a popular woody herb used in cooking and known for its memory-boosting properties.

Lavender: a fragrant woody herb often used in aromatherapy and known for its calming effects.

Sage: a woody herb commonly used in stuffing and other Thanksgiving dishes, and known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Woody herbs are a unique type of plant that offers both aesthetic and practical benefits. Whether you're looking to add some visual interest to your garden or incorporate natural remedies into your health routine, woody herbs are a great choice. By understanding how to grow and care for these plants, you can enjoy their benefits for years to come.

Lavender, Rosemary, Sage, Thyme, Woody Plants