Cranesbill (Herb Robert)
Cranesbill (Geranium spp.) is a wild plant from the geranium family and is native to many regions of Europe. Herb Robert (Geranium robertianum) is particularly well known for its aromatic scent and delicate pink flowers. The characteristically deeply lobed leaves and the beak-like fruiting bodies, which give the plant its name, make cranesbill easy to identify. It prefers to grow in semi-shaded to shaded locations such as forest edges, hedges and damp meadows.
Goldenrod
Goldenrod (Solidaginis virgaureae) is an agricultural crop which has been recognised for its various uses for centuries. The introduction of goldenrod to Europe took place in the 17th century, and since then, it has thrived as an invasive neophyte in the sparse forests and dry woodland meadows of Europe and North America. This medicinal plant, which announces the end of summer with its vibrant yellow flowers, can also be used as a natural dye.
Dead Nettle
Dead nettle (Lamium) is a low-growing, herbaceous plant often found in gardens and woodlands, known for its nettle-like appearance but without the sting (hence, "dead"). Historically, dead nettle has been used in traditional medicine as a gentle remedy for wounds, cramps, digestive issues and respiratory ailments, with white dead nettle (Lamium album) especially prized for its soothing properties. In folklore, it was sometimes believed to offer protection from evil spirits.
Nettle Leaf
Nettle (Urtica dioica, Urtica urens) deserves a place of honour among herbs. With around 70 species found across the globe (everywhere except Antarctica) it is hardy, undemanding and remarkably effective. It thrives in close proximity to humans, and numerous butterfly species depend on it for survival. Already known in antiquity, nettle was believed to ward off evil.
Lady's Mantle
Lady's mantle (Alchemilla) belongs to the rose family (Rosaceae). Its species are widespread across Europe, Asia and Africa, thriving particularly at higher altitudes, with around 300 species in Europe alone. Its botanical name, Alchemilla, alludes to alchemy and the plant's perceived magical properties, a belief inspired by the droplets of water that form on its leaves and have been used in home remedies since ancient times.
Yarrow
A remarkably resilient perennial, yarrow grows throughout Europe and northern Asia, extending as far as the Arctic Circle. So hardy it often remains visible above ground even in winter, it is a plant with a long and storied tradition in herbalism. Yarrow's legacy is rooted in ancient Greek mythology, which holds that the hero Achilles used the herb to treat his soldiers. This legend is immortalised in yarrow's botanical name, Achillea millefolium.
Ground Ivy
Ground ivy (Glechoma hederacea L.), also known as creeping Charlie, grows across the ground, around trees and along fences and homes, with shoots extending up to one metre in length. It can be found across Europe, North and West Asia as far as Japan and has also been successfully introduced to the American continent. The Celts were drawn to its use in brewing beer, as it offers an exceptional source of bitterness, among other qualities. From sea level to mountainous regions, its presence can be an indicator for the surrounding nature's good health.
Lemon Verbena
Lemon verbena (Aloysia citrodora), also known as lemon beebrush or verveine, is indigenous to Argentina, Uruguay and Chile. During the 18th century, it was introduced to Europe, where it was scientifically classified as a distinct species for the first time. The perennial plant thrives in nutrient-rich, water-permeable sandy soil with ample sunlight, preferring sheltered locations. In spring, new stems emerge from the roots, followed by the elongated leaves appearing from May onwards, arranged in threes in a whorled fashion. When fully grown, these leaves exude a delightful lemon fragrance. Come August, small white flowers adorned with four tiny petals grace the plant.
Pansy
The wild pansy (Viola tricolor) can be found in many places from flowerbeds to roadsides. Widespread in most parts of Europe, it is only absent in the northern- and southernmost parts of this continent. It is an annual and grows to a height of about twenty centimetres. It prefers meadows, roadsides and fallow land, and flowers from May to September. Since ancient times, this little sister of the violet has been enshrined in plant lore and many legends have grown up around it.
Cornflower
The cornflower (Centaurea cyanus L., Cyanus arvensis) was so thoroughly eradicated that it nearly became extinct. As a result, it is now a protected species. Originating from the eastern Mediterranean region, it spread across Europe adapting to a variety of landscapes. It can even be found at altitudes of up to 1800m in the Alps. Our true cornflower comes from natural cultivation on low-lime, well-drained, and nutrient-rich soils. Due to its high content of bitter substances and anthocyanin pigments, it holds a well-established place in herbal medicine.
