After I checked out, and renewed endlessly, this book from our local library, I realized it was time to break down and buy it.

So glad I did. It is a go-to reference I've used again and again. Herbal gardening in the South is NOT like the Mediterranean, or France, or England. This book wisely addresses the differences and how we can make up for them. Plus the writing is a joy. ( )

Madelene Hill is the absolute dean of herb gardening in Texas. She and her husband Jim used to have Hilltop Herb farm, where I was fortunate enough to take some meals.
It was destroyed in a tornado. Later Jim died and Madelene and her daughter Gwen Barclay moved to Round Top,Texas, where they garden, cook, teach, and write. The book is divided into three parts. Part 1 is a herbal primer; Part 2 is a growing guide with an alphabetical listing of each herb treated; Part 3 is a collection of recipes using herbs including one I love dearly -cookies made with cinnamon basil!

This is the best herb book I own, and it is specific to southern herb growing. It's an excellent reference for caring for and using herbs in a climate where they may or may not be too happy. Great recipes, beautiful photographs and excellent guide for growing herbs in this region. ( )