GARDEN HERBS 311 



Lavender (Lavendula spied). Native of southern 

 Europe. Perennial. A low undershrub grown chiefly 

 for its flowers, which are used in the manufacture of per- 

 fumery. Generally increased by dividing the old roots. 

 It delights in a fine, rich, rather calcareous soil. 



Peppermint (Mentha piperita). Native of northern 

 Europe. Perennial. Propagated by division of the stems; 

 occasionally a roadside weed in moist places. It is culti- 

 vated in the same way as spearmint. Used mostly for 

 its essential oil, which is obtained by distillation. The 

 raising of this plant forms a considerable industry in a few 

 locations in the Northern states. 



Sage (Salvia officinalis}. Native of southern Europe. 

 Perennial. Plants forming broad tufts about sixteen 

 inches high; flowers in heads of 

 three or four in terminal clusters, 

 usually bluish white but some- 

 times white or pink. The seeds 

 are round and of medium size. 

 Plants come readily from seed, 

 which should be sown in early 

 spring. It is customary in a small 

 way to sow the seed outdoors and 

 allow the plants to remain where 

 they grow for several years. Where 

 it is grown on a large scale, how- 

 ever, the plants are generally put Fig ' 136 ' A branch of sage ' 

 out as a second crop, following early peas or cabbage. 

 There is some uncertainty about its coming through 

 very severe winters in the Northern states, but it generally 

 does so in good shape; it is more reliable if banked with 

 earth or covered with litter in winter. Broad-leaved sage 

 is an improved kind. 



