Herb Society of America
Hill Country UnitWho Are We?
The mission statement of the Herb Society of America is to “promote the knowledge, use and delight of herbs through educational programs, research and sharing the experience of its members with the community”. The Society is committed to protecting our global environment for the health and well-being of humankind and all growing things. We encourage gardeners to practice environmentally sound horticulture. The Motto of the Society is taken from the herbalist, John Parkinson: “For Use and Delight”
Herb Of The Month
Lavender (Lavandula).
- Lavender has a 2,500-year history, originating in the Mediterranean and Middle East, with ancient Egyptians using it for mummification and perfume, and Romans for bathing and washing, from which its Latin name lavare , “to wash,” comes from. Across cultures and centuries, it has been valued for its fragrance, therapeutic properties (easing pain, insomnia, and anxiety), and its ability to disinfect and deodorize.
- Lavender’s health benefits include reducing anxiety and stress, improving sleep quality, easing pain and inflammation, and supporting hair and skin health. It also possesses antimicrobial properties and may help with conditions like headaches, menstrual cramps, and digestive issues.
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Lavender is also delicious in recipes. The flowers can be added to baked goods, shortbread, ice cream, and more , to add flavor and provide relaxation.
- Lavender is drought-tolerant and it prefers well-drained, slightly alkaline soil. Spanish lavender is the best species for our area, due to its high heat tolerance and drought resistance. Varieties of English lavender, such as Phenomenal and Munstead, can also be successful but they require more careful management in our Central Texas heat.
The Hill Country Unit meets the third Wednesday of the month, September through May, at 9:30 a.m., in the Meeting Room of the Emily Ann Theatre & Gardens, 1101 FM 2325, Wimberley, TX.
Program Info
“Boston Tea Party: Native Herbal Teas” Fall Herb Garden” with Catherine O’Brien
When: October 15, 2025
9:30 a.m.
Where: Emily Ann Theatre & Gardens
1101 FM-2325, Wimberley, TX 78676
You are invited to a tea party! Catherine O’Briend, with the South Texas Unit of the Herb Society of America will present our program. Come and enjoy native herbal teas and tea party-themed treats. Bring your favorite teacup and saucer!
RSVP to Lisa Valentine at valentine_lisa@msn.com
Member Benefits
- Free or discounted admissions to participating gardens and arboreta nationwide though AHS Reciprocal Garden Program
- Specialized district and annual meetings
- Connection to fellow herb enthusiasts through the exclusive, online HSA Membership Directory
- Subscription to the annual journal THE HERBARIST as well as national and district newsletters
- Admission to the members-only section of HSA’s website, which includes special educational programs
