20 Unique Herb Varieties for Your Garden That Will Surprise Everyone (Don’t Miss #12!)

Herb gardens are not just a way to grow fresh ingredients for your meals; they’re a canvas for creativity, flavor, and a bit of intrigue.

Imagine stepping into your backyard and being greeted by a riot of colors, aromas, and textures that you didn’t even know could come from herbs!

In this list, we’re diving deep into 20 unique herb varieties that will not only elevate your culinary creations but also spark conversations among friends and family. Trust us, you’ll want to give #12 a special spot in your garden!

1. Purple Basil

Forget the standard green basil; purple basil is here to add a pop of color and a hint of spice to your dishes. This striking herb features stunning dark purple leaves that are not only visually captivating but also have a slightly spicier taste than its green counterpart.

Use it fresh in salads or pasta, or as a vibrant garnish for your favorite dishes. To get started with growing your own purple basil, consider the Herb Garden Starter Kit, which includes everything you need for a successful herb garden. It’s a complete beginner-friendly seed starter kit, making it a unique gift idea for any gardening enthusiast.

Plant purple basil in a sunny spot, as it thrives in well-drained soil. Here are some tips:
– Allow plants to reach about 12 inches tall before harvesting.
– Regular pruning encourages bushier growth, and for that, the gardening pruning shears are perfect. They make trimming easy and efficient, ensuring your plants remain healthy and vigorous.
– Pair well with tomatoes and cheese for a delightful flavor combination.

Spice up your herb garden with purple basil! Its vibrant leaves not only wow the eyes but also pack a punch in flavor, making every dish a masterpiece.

If you’re looking to grow your own purple basil, don’t forget to get organic purple basil seeds. These seeds will provide you with aromatic herbs for cooking, salads, and garnishes, allowing you to enjoy fresh herbs all year round.

Product Recommendations:
• Herb Garden Starter Kit
• gardening pruning shears
• organic purple basil seeds

2. Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is like sunshine in your garden! This vibrant herb has a refreshing lemon scent that can uplift your spirits. It’s perfect for teas, infused waters, or even desserts. The leaves can be harvested throughout the growing season, and they are great for attracting pollinators to your garden.

To help you cultivate this delightful herb, consider starting with organic lemon balm seeds, which come in a pack of 1000 seeds, ensuring you have plenty to grow and enjoy.

When it comes to caring for lemon balm, remember that it loves sun but can tolerate partial shade. Water regularly but avoid waterlogging, and to encourage new growth, harvest leaves often. This helps prevent flowering, extending your harvesting season. To enhance your gardening experience, an herb garden starter kit is a great option for beginners, providing everything you need to get started with multiple herbs, including lemon balm.

When it’s time to dry your harvested leaves, a herb drying rack can be a useful tool. This collapsible, four-tier mesh rack allows for efficient drying, helping you preserve the lovely aroma and flavor of your lemon balm for use in the months to come.

With these helpful products, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the many benefits of lemon balm in your garden and kitchen!

Product Recommendations:
• organic lemon balm seeds
• herb garden starter kit
• herb drying rack

3. Chervil

Chervil, often overlooked, is a delicate herb that adds a subtle anise flavor to dishes. It’s an essential ingredient in French cuisine, frequently used in sauces and soups. Chervil grows well in cooler temperatures, making it a perfect spring herb.

For best results:
– Sow seeds in early spring or late summer. You can start with Chervil seeds from Mr Fothergill’s to ensure a high-quality start for your garden.
– Keep the soil moist but not soggy. A soil moisture meter can help you monitor soil conditions effectively, preventing over or under-watering.
– Harvest leaves before the plant flowers for the best flavor. Chervil can elevate eggs, salads, or even a light vinaigrette.

Chervil may be the quiet superstar of the herb garden! Its delicate anise flavor can elevate your dishes, making spring meals a delightful surprise. Don’t miss out on this essential for your culinary creations!

If you’re new to gardening, consider the herb garden starter kit, which includes everything you need to begin growing your own herbs, including chervil!

Product Recommendations:
• Chervil seeds
• soil moisture meter
• herb garden starter kit

4. Vietnamese Coriander

If you love a kick of flavor, Vietnamese coriander is your new best friend!

This herb has a unique, peppery taste that can enhance Asian dishes beautifully. It’s hardy and can thrive in both pots and garden beds, making it versatile. To get started with growing Vietnamese coriander, consider using an Herb Garden Starter Kit. This complete beginner-friendly seeds starter kit will equip you with a variety of herbs, including everything you need to cultivate your own fresh ingredients right at home.

Vietnamese coriander prefers warm and humid conditions, so it’s ideal for tropical climates. If you’re looking for a convenient way to manage watering, check out the self-watering planters. These pots ensure your plants receive the right amount of moisture, which is essential for thriving Vietnamese coriander.

Harvest leaves as needed; this encourages new growth. Use them fresh in salads or as a garnish for soups, or add them to stir-fries for a flavor boost! If you’re eager to get started right away, you might want to buy a Vietnamese coriander herb plant in a 9cm pot. It’s perfect for immediate use and will help you elevate your culinary creations with ease.

Product Recommendations:
• Herb Garden Starter Kit
• Self-Watering Planters
• Vietnamese Coriander Herb Plant in 9cm Pot

5. Salad Burnet

Salad burnet is a unique herb that can add a refreshing cucumber-like flavor to your salads. With its serrated leaves and delicate red flowers, it’s not just delicious but also visually appealing. It thrives in various conditions, making it a breeze to grow.

To cultivate salad burnet effectively, consider using organic fertilizer for herbs like Baby Bio Herb Food. This easy-to-use herb plant food promotes healthy growth and enhances the flavors and aromas of your herbs, ensuring that your salad burnet is as flavorful as possible.

Remember, salad burnet prefers full sun or partial shade and needs regular watering; however, be cautious not to let it sit in water. To maintain its bushiness and flavor, snip the leaves regularly with gardening shears such as the Spear & Jackson Razorsharp Notched Hedge Shear. These shears will make the task easier and help you achieve clean cuts.

You can incorporate salad burnet leaves into salads, dips, or dressings for a fresh twist. With the right care and tools, this delightful herb will elevate your culinary creations!

Salad burnet brings a refreshing twist to your herb garden! With its crisp cucumber flavor and charming red flowers, it’s a delightful way to elevate your salads. Don’t forget to snip those leaves for maximum flavor!

Product Recommendations:
• organic herb fertilizer
• gardening shears
• herb drying rack

6. Thai Basil

Thai basil brings a bold, spicy flavor that can transform your dishes into something extraordinary. With its beautiful purple stems and pointed leaves, it’s as much a treat for the eyes as for the palate. This herb is a must-have for Southeast Asian dishes, particularly in curries and stir-fries.

To successfully grow Thai basil, you’ll want to plant it in full sun and well-drained soil. Regularly pinching back the plant promotes bushy growth, ensuring a robust harvest. You can also enhance your gardening experience with some great tools and resources. Consider the Herb Garden Starter Kit, which provides a complete beginner-friendly way to get started with growing various herbs, including Thai basil.

To ensure you have the best seeds, you might want to try organic Thai basil seeds from Mr Fothergill’s. This will give you a reliable source for planting and guarantee you get the authentic taste and aroma that Thai basil offers.

Finally, don’t forget about maintaining your plants. Having a good pair of gardening shears, like the gardening shears for pruning from Spear & Jackson, can make a huge difference when it comes to harvesting leaves frequently. With the right care and tools, your Thai basil will thrive, allowing you to enjoy its vibrant flavor all season long.

Product Recommendations:
• Herb Garden Starter Kit
• organic Thai basil seeds
• gardening shears for pruning

7. Chocolate Mint

Yes, you read that right! Chocolate mint is an indulgent herb with a delightful minty flavor and a hint of chocolate. It’s perfect for desserts, teas, or even mojitos. The aroma alone is enough to lift your spirits. To keep your chocolate mint thriving, consider using a organic fertilizer for herbs. This easy-to-use herb plant food will help ensure strong flavors and aromas, promoting healthy growth for your mint.

Make sure to plant it in a pot, as it can spread quickly in garden beds. A self-watering planter is an excellent choice, helping to keep the soil moist but well-drained, which is crucial for chocolate mint.

Here’s how to care for it:
– Prefers full sun to partial shade.
– Snip back regularly to keep it under control and promote fresh growth; the leaves are best when harvested just before the flowers bloom.

Chocolate mint: the herb that turns ordinary desserts into delightful indulgences! Plant it with care and enjoy the uplifting aroma and flavor in your favorite recipes. Your herb garden will thank you!

To start your herb garden journey, you might also want to check out the herb garden starter kit, which includes everything you need to grow a variety of herbs, including chocolate mint.

Product Recommendations:
• Organic fertilizer for herbs
• self-watering planter
• herb garden starter kit

8. Curry Plant

Have you ever considered growing the curry plant? This herb offers a unique flavor that resembles its namesake dish but isn’t actually used for making curry. The leaves have a strong aroma that can enhance soups, stews, and even marinades. It’s a hardy plant that requires minimal care, making it perfect for any garden enthusiast.

To grow it successfully, plant in full sun with well-drained soil. For this, you might want to use organic potting soil mix, which is enriched with nutrients and helps create the ideal environment for your curry plant. Additionally, water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep roots. A good tool for this task is a watering can with measurement, ensuring you provide just the right amount of water without overdoing it.

As you start harvesting, remember to use fresh leaves sparingly in your recipes for a surprisingly fragrant twist! If you’re new to gardening or wish to explore other herbs, consider the herb garden starter kit. It’s a complete beginner-friendly option that allows you to grow various herbs alongside your curry plant. Happy gardening!

Product Recommendations:
• organic potting soil mix
• watering can with measurement
• herb garden starter kit

9. Shiso

Shiso, also known as perilla, is a flavorful herb popular in Japanese cuisine. It has a unique taste that combines elements of mint, basil, and anise, making it a versatile addition to salads, sushi, and wraps.

Shiso comes in both green and purple varieties, adding color to your garden and plate! To get started with growing your own shiso, consider using Herb Garden Starter Kit, which provides everything you need to cultivate various herbs, including shiso, in a beginner-friendly way.

Here’s how to grow it:
– Prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.
– Space plants about 12 inches apart for optimal growth.
– Regularly snip leaves to encourage bushy growth and keep it under control.

To ensure you have quality seeds, you can purchase organic shiso seeds. This economy pack offers 150 seeds, making it easy to start your shiso adventure.

Don’t forget to try it in your next sushi night! To help with all your gardening tasks, you might find the gardening tools set useful. This 10-piece kit features heavy-duty tools that can assist you in planting and maintaining your shiso plants, ensuring they thrive beautifully in your garden.

Product Recommendations:
• Herb Garden Starter Kit
• organic shiso seeds
• gardening tools set

10. Epazote

Epazote is a bold herb often used in Mexican cooking to add a distinctive flavor to beans and other dishes. Known for its strong aroma, it can sometimes be off-putting, but it’s an excellent digestive aid when added to food. Epazote can grow quite tall, making it a unique addition to your garden.

To successfully cultivate epazote, plant it in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. It thrives on neglect, so avoid overwatering. For the ideal growing medium, consider using organic potting soil mix for all indoor & outdoor small containers, which is perfect for herbs and ensures your epazote has the nutrients it needs. Harvest leaves as needed; they’re best used fresh in cooking or as a seasoning. Just a little goes a long way!

If you’re starting from scratch, you can find epazote seeds in a Mexican herb selection seed kit, which includes other traditional varieties typically used for tacos, burritos, and tortillas. This kit is a great way to expand your herb garden and surprise everyone with your culinary creations!

Product Recommendations:
• organic potting soil mix for all indoor & outdoor small containers
• epazote seeds in a Mexican herb selection seed kit
• herb garden planting tools set

11. Hops

While commonly known for its role in brewing beer, hops can also be a striking addition to your herb garden! These climbing plants have beautiful, lush foliage and produce cones that can add a subtle bitterness to culinary dishes. They can be trained to climb on trellises or fences, making them a great ornamental choice.

To grow hops successfully, ensure they have plenty of sunlight and a sturdy support structure, like a garden trellis that allows them to climb elegantly. Regular watering is crucial, especially during dry spells; a handy watering can with long spout can help you reach those hard-to-water areas of your garden.

When it comes time to harvest cones in late summer, they can be used in cooking or for brewing. To ensure your hops thrive and develop robust flavors, consider using organic fertilizer for herbs. This easy-to-use herb plant food will support healthy growth and enhance the vibrant aromas of your hops. Plus, they look fantastic climbing up your garden structure!

Product Recommendations:
• garden trellis
• watering can with long spout
• organic fertilizer for herbs

12. Variegated Sage

Hold onto your hats because variegated sage is a stunner! This plant features leaves that are beautifully splashed with shades of cream and green. Not only does it look amazing in the garden, but it also adds a robust flavor to meats, soups, and savory dishes. To get started, you can purchase a variegated sage plant, which is ready to plant and will make a striking addition to your herb garden.

Variegated sage thrives in well-drained soil and full sun, making it easy to cultivate. Caring for it is simple:
– Trim the plant to encourage bushy growth and remove any dead leaves.
– Harvest leaves throughout the season for maximum flavor.
– Pair it with poultry or in stuffing for a deliciously fragrant meal by a herb lover!

If you’re new to gardening or looking for an easy way to grow a variety of herbs, consider the Herb Garden Starter Kit. This kit includes seeds for eight different herbs, making it a fantastic gift idea and a great way to expand your culinary herb collection. With these resources, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the tasty and aromatic delights of your very own herb garden!

Product Recommendations:
• Variegated Sage Plant
• Herb Garden Starter Kit
• Organic Herb Seeds Variety Pack

13. Nasturtium

While technically a flower, nasturtium leaves and blossoms are edible and can add a spicy, peppery flavor to your dishes. Their vibrant colors bring life to any garden and can be used in salads or as a garnish. Plus, they attract beneficial insects, making them a great companion plant.

To grow nasturtiums, consider starting with Mr Fothergill’s NASTURTIUM Jewel Mixed Flower Seeds. These seeds will help you cultivate beautiful, colorful plants that not only look stunning but also enhance your culinary creations. They thrive in poor soil, so there’s no need for fertilizers! Water regularly but avoid overwatering. Harvest leaves and flowers as needed; they’re best used fresh. Imagine a colorful, edible garden that delights the eyes and palate!

Product Recommendations:
• Mr Fothergill’s NASTURTIUM Jewel Mixed Flower Seeds
• Organic Nasturtium Seeds by Seed Needs
• Dehydrated Nasturtium Leaves and Flowers for Culinary Use

14. Stevia

Stevia is nature’s sweetener! This herb provides a sugar-like sweetness without the calories. Its leaves can be used fresh or dried to sweeten beverages and desserts, making it a handy addition to any garden. Stevia grows best in warm temperatures and is simple to care for.

To cultivate stevia successfully, consider using a stevia plant seeds to kick off your gardening journey. Plant them in full sun with well-drained soil, and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying fresh stevia. Remember to water regularly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings—this is where a soil moisture meter can be incredibly helpful. This handy tool will help you monitor the moisture levels in your soil, ensuring that your stevia gets just the right amount of water.

When your stevia plants are thriving, harvest the leaves when they’re young for maximum sweetness. You can use them fresh in tea or dry them for later use. If you’re looking to grow stevia alongside other herbs, consider an herb garden starter kit. This kit provides a great way to organize your plants, whether indoors or outdoors, making it easier to create your very own herb paradise.

Product Recommendations:
• stevia plant seeds
• soil moisture meter
• herb garden starter kit

15. Perilla

Perilla, also known as shiso, is a versatile herb that adds a unique taste to a variety of dishes. It has a slightly minty and spicy flavor that works well in salads, sandwiches, and even as a garnish. This herb is easy to grow and comes in both green and purple varieties, making it a visually appealing choice for your garden.

To successfully grow perilla, you can start with perilla seeds, which offer a robust amount for your gardening needs. Perilla prefers full sun and well-drained soil, so consider using a dedicated container like the herb garden planter to provide the right environment, especially if space is limited. This planter makes it easy to grow multiple herbs together, creating a lush display.

Water consistently to keep the soil moist, and for optimal growth, utilize organic fertilizer for herbs. This herb plant food is designed to strengthen flavors and aromas, ensuring that your perilla grows healthy and flavorful. Harvest leaves throughout the growing season for the best taste. Try it in your next Asian-inspired meal for a delightful twist!

Product Recommendations:
• perilla seeds
• herb garden planter
• organic fertilizer for herbs

16. Dill

Dill is an aromatic herb that’s perfect for seasoning fish, pickles, and salads. Its feathery leaves and yellow flowers not only add flavor but also beauty to your garden. Dill is easy to grow and can be harvested within a few weeks, making it a rewarding addition to any herb collection.

To cultivate dill, consider the following:
– Plant in full sun with well-drained soil.
– Water regularly, especially during dry periods.
– Harvest leaves and flowers as needed; they’re best used fresh for maximum flavor.

For those just starting their herb gardening journey, the herb garden starter kit is a great choice, providing you with a complete beginner-friendly seeds starter kit that includes everything you need to grow various herbs, including dill.

If you’re looking to add more dill to your dishes, consider using organic dill seeds. These high-quality seeds can help you grow fresh dill at home, perfect for enhancing your culinary creations.

Lastly, to make the most out of your freshly harvested dill, using herb scissors can be a game changer. With five stainless steel blades, these scissors allow you to easily chop your herbs, making the preparation of your next seafood dish a breeze. Add dill to your meal for a fresh twist!

Product Recommendations:
• herb garden starter kit
• organic dill seeds
• herb scissors

17. Oregano

Oregano is a classic herb that brings a robust flavor to Italian and Mediterranean dishes. It’s easy to grow and can thrive in various conditions, making it a must-have in any herb garden. Additionally, the dried leaves can be used for a long time, keeping your pantry stocked with flavor.

To grow oregano:
– Plant in full sun with well-drained soil.
– Water sparingly, as it prefers dry conditions.
– Regularly harvest leaves to encourage new growth. Fresh oregano can elevate your pizza, pasta, and marinades!

If you’re looking to start your own herb garden, consider the Herb Garden Starter Kit, which includes everything you need to grow multiple herbs, including oregano. For those who want to grow oregano from seeds, the Organic Oregano Seeds are an excellent choice, ensuring you have high-quality, non-GMO plants.

Once you’ve harvested your oregano, you’ll want to preserve it for future use. The Herb Drying Rack can help you efficiently dry your herbs, allowing you to enjoy the flavor of fresh oregano long after the growing season ends.

Product Recommendations:
• Herb Garden Starter Kit
• Organic Oregano Seeds
• Herb Drying Rack

18. Sweet Marjoram

Sweet marjoram is a tender herb that adds a warm flavor to many dishes, particularly Italian cuisine. It’s often used in sauces, soups, and meats, bringing a sweet yet slightly spicy taste. This herb thrives in warm weather and is both attractive and useful.

To grow sweet marjoram successfully, consider using Grow Buddha grow your own gardening 8 herbs kit, which provides a complete beginner-friendly seeds starter kit, making it easy to cultivate your selection of herbs, including marjoram. It’s also a unique gift idea for any gardening enthusiast.

Plant your sweet marjoram in full sun with well-drained soil. Keeping the soil moderately moist but never soggy is essential for its growth. For the best results, you might want to invest in a gardening tools set. This 10-piece heavy-duty garden tool set ensures you have the necessary tools for effective planting and maintenance, making your gardening experience more enjoyable.

Don’t forget to harvest leaves regularly for the freshest flavor. You can also procure organic sweet marjoram seeds, which will help you establish a thriving herb garden. This versatile herb truly is a kitchen staple!

Product Recommendations:
• Grow Buddha grow your own gardening 8 herbs kit
• a gardening tools set
• organic sweet marjoram seeds

19. Fennel

Fennel is not just a herb; it’s also a vegetable! The feathery fronds add a licorice flavor to dishes and can be used fresh in salads or cooked in a variety of meals. Its bulbs can be harvested and eaten raw or cooked, making this a multi-purpose plant for your garden. Plus, it grows tall and adds an architectural element to your space.

To grow fennel effectively, start by planting in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. To simplify your gardening experience, consider using a raised garden bed kit like the Mardili raised garden bed, which offers a fantastic environment for nurturing your fennel while elevating the aesthetics of your outdoor space.

It’s essential to water consistently to keep the soil moist, and having the right tools can make this task easier. A good pair of gardening gloves can protect your hands while ensuring you have a strong grip as you tend to your plants.

Finally, to help you get started, don’t forget to sow the right seeds. Check out organic fennel seeds from Manor Springs Organic, which will set you off on the right foot for a thriving herb garden.

Fennel pairs beautifully with fish and can elevate salads with its unique flavor! Happy gardening!

Product Recommendations:
• Mardili raised garden bed kit
• gardening gloves
• organic fennel seeds from Manor Springs Organic

20. Chives

Chives are another classic herb, but did you know that their lovely purple flowers are also edible? These versatile herbs add a mild onion flavor that enhances salads, soups, and dips. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to grow. Just a little space and sunlight will do!

To get started with growing your own chives, consider the Herb Garden Starter Kit. This complete beginner-friendly kit comes with everything you need to cultivate eight different herbs, making it an excellent gift idea for anyone looking to dive into gardening.

For healthy chives, remember to:
– Plant in full sun with well-drained soil.
– Water regularly but ensure the soil dries out between watering.
– Regularly trim to encourage growth and use both the leaves and flowers in your culinary adventures.

Using organic chive seeds can give you a fresh and flavorful harvest. With 600 seeds in a pack, you can easily grow a substantial amount to enjoy in your meals.

Once your chives are ready to be harvested, having the right tools can make a difference. The herb scissors with five blades are perfect for quickly snipping chives and other herbs, ensuring you get the most out of your garden without the hassle. Chives are a lovely finishing touch on many dishes!

Product Recommendations:
• Herb Garden Starter Kit
• Organic Chive Seeds
• Herb Scissors with Five Blades

Conclusion

With these 20 unique herb varieties, your garden will not only be a feast for the eyes but also a hub of flavors waiting to be explored.

From the aromatic to the visually stunning, each herb adds its own personality and flair, making your gardening experience more rewarding.

Consider trying a few of these plants in your herb garden, and enjoy the surprises they bring to your kitchen!



Note: We aim to provide accurate product links, but some may occasionally expire or become unavailable. If this happens, please search directly on Amazon for the product or a suitable alternative.

This post contains Amazon affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some unique herb varieties I can grow in my garden?

If you’re looking to spice up your garden, consider growing herbs like Purple Basil, Vietnamese Coriander, or Chocolate Mint. These unique herb varieties not only add flavor to your dishes but also bring vibrant colors and scents to your garden, making them truly delightful additions!

How can I care for unique herbs in my garden?

Caring for unique herbs may vary slightly from one variety to another, but generally, ensure they receive adequate sunlight, water, and well-draining soil. For instance, Lemon Balm loves a sunny spot, while Chervil prefers cooler temperatures. Research specific needs for each herb to maximize growth and flavor!

Can I use these unique herbs in cooking?

Absolutely! Most of these unique herbs, like Thai Basil and Salad Burnet, are not just ornamental but also culinary stars. You can use them in a variety of dishes, from salads and teas to savory meals, giving your cooking an exciting twist and enhancing flavors!

Are there any herbs that attract pollinators to my garden?

Yes! Growing herbs like Chives and Nasturtium not only adds to your herb garden’s beauty and flavor but also attracts beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies. This creates a vibrant ecosystem while enhancing your garden’s productivity!

How do I know which unique herbs are suitable for my climate?

Choosing the right herbs for your climate is crucial! Research each herb’s hardiness zone and growth requirements. For example, Oregano thrives in warm, dry conditions, while Epazote can handle the heat of summer. Consulting local gardening resources or extension services can also help you make informed choices!