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
Curry Leaf (Murraya koenigii).
- The curry leaf tree is an ancient Asian species, and is part of the citrus family.
- Historically, curry leaves have been incorporated into culinary, medicinal, religious and cultural practices in their native growing region and have remained an essential wild and cultivated plant.
- Curry leaves can be used in Ayurvedic medicine. They can be boiled for tea or ground into powder (NOT the same as curry power). They have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It has also been to help reduce blood sugar and lower cholesterol.
- They are a good source of iron, carotenoids, beta carotene, and calcium.
- Curry leaves are known for their distinctive aroma, reminiscent of citrus, lemongrass and nuts.
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The tropical or sub-tropical curry tree is native to India and Sri Lanka. It thrives in warm, humid climates. It also prefers fertile, well-drained soil and needs 6-8 hours of sunlight per day. It should not be overwatered.
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Leaves can be harvested when the tree is 1-2 years old.
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.
Herbal Program Info
Preparing for Cold & Virus Season
When: September 16, 2026
9:30 a.m.
Where: Emily Ann Theatre & Gardens
1101 FM-2325, Wimberley, TX 78676
Our programs coordinator, Alicia Dedman, will talk to us about herbal cough syrups, teas, etc. to help soothe illness symptoms. Featured will be “Fire Cider.” Attendees will get to try samples and will get recipes. Alicia will also discuss the herb, mullein. Vickie Callahan will present curry, our herb of the month.
Join us for this informative presentation and for herbal treats and social time, as well.
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
