Seeds for a Bible Garden
The Olive is the king of "set it and forget it" landscaping. Once established, it is one of the hardiest trees on the planet. Evolution has polished this tree to thrive on neglect and minimal water.
Evergreen Elegance: Unlike deciduous trees, the Olive keeps its shimmering, silvery-green foliage all year round, providing a consistent "high-end" look. Fire Resistant: Its dense wood and unique biology make it a naturally fire-wise choice for regions prone to wildfires.
Why plant a tree that only looks good when you can plant one that feeds you? Home-Grown Harvest: Enjoy the unrivaled flavor of your own cured olives or cold-pressed oils—purer and fresher than anything in a store.
Ancient Health Benefits: Rich in monounsaturated fats and powerful polyphenols (oleocanthal), the fruit and leaves are pillars of the world’s healthiest diet. Olive Leaf Tea: Even the leaves are a harvestable resource, packed with antioxidants for immune-boosting teas.
Landscape architects love the Olea europaea for its sculptural character: Architectural Trunk: As the tree ages, the trunk becomes beautifully gnarled and twisted, turning into a natural piece of living art. Versatile Sizing: From "Arbequina" bushes perfect for hedges to "Mission" trees for stately shade, there is a shape for every garden.
Olive trees are carbon-sequestering champions. They are exceptionally long-lived (often 500+ years), meaning the carbon they pull from the air stays locked away for centuries. By planting one, you are creating a permanent habitat for beneficial birds and pollinators.
Common Olive is generally hardy in USDA Zones 8–10, thriving in Mediterranean climates with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. While drought-tolerant when established, they are sensitive to prolonged freezes, with severe damage occurring below 15°F (-9°C).
Although it can get more than 100' tall with an equal spread from its strong limbs, most specimens in cultivation can be expected to top out around 50-70'. In youth the tree is conical and symmetrical. The leaves, about an inch long, are stiff and 4-angled, and arranged in dense clusters on short shoots. The cones are barrel shaped, 3-5" long and held erect, a characteristic of the true cedars (genus Cedrus).
Cedar of Lebanon is very similar to (and very closely related to) Atlas cedar (C. atlantica), and some authorities consider them to be just subspecies in the same species. Michael Dirr, the famous authority on landscape trees from the University of Georgia, says Atlas cedar has a taller, less flattened crown, less densely arranged branchlets, and smaller cones (2-3" long) than cedar of Lebanon.
Location: Cedar of Lebanon is named for the famous forests that grow in Lebanon. The species also occurs in Turkey and Syria. Var. stenocoma is native to southern Turkey.
Culture: The cedars grow well in acidic sands and in thin soils over limestone; pH doesn't matter. Good drainage is essential, however. Cedar of Lebanon has a tendency to produce multiple leaders and the grower may wish to prune out the weaker shoots; do this
in autumn. These are slow growing trees.
Light: Young trees can grow in partial shade but will eventually need full sun to realize their potential.
Moisture: Cedar of Lebanon occurs naturally where there is very little summer rainfall, and is quite tolerant of drought. It can thrive where annual precipitation is no more than 15", but it also does well where 80" of annual precipitation is the norm.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 6 - 9.
Usage: The cedars make majestic specimen trees for parks, estates and larger lawns. A mature cedar of Lebanon, especially one with multiple leaders, will be as wide as it is tall, and a truly picturesque specimen.
Features: The taxonomy of the genus Cedrus is debated by the botanists. Depending on who you believe, you can recognize one, two or four species. The splitters recognize Cyprus cedar (Cedrus brevifolia), cedar of Lebanon, deodar cedar (C. deodar), and Atlas cedar. Germination: 30-50%.
This palm is grown commercially throughout the Middle East for its delicious and abundant fruit. It can be easily grown indoors. Outside, it will grow to a height of 80 ft. with a 12" trunk that is coverer with attractive leaf scars. The leaves are feather shaped with a beautiful gray-green coloration. It is a fast grower. Everyone should have one of these plants.
The strong triangular blades of this plant provided ribs for basket weaving, while the softer circular stems were often used for thatch or for finer weaving purposes. Though not a true rush, this member of the sedge family provides forage for water birds and small rodents. Occasionally, even the regal trumpeter swan and the Canada goose eat its foliage. A tough plant, it survives many types of hardship and is often used for erosion control or wetland restoration. The genus name "Scirpus" is the Latin term for bulrush.
Direct sow either in late fall or early spring. Press the seed into the surface of the soil, compacting the soil very firmly. For spring planting, mix the seeds with moist sand and store in the refrigerator for 60 days before planting. Keep the soil saturated until germination.
Growing: Water seedlings regularly until they become established. This plant prefers soil that is constantly moist and saturated, and thrives in shallow water or mud. It adapts to many soil types, including sand and gravel with adequate moisture. It will spread by rhizomes and self-seeding; mature plants can be divided. This plant makes an excellent choice for erosion control or wetland restoration, and provides forage and cover for birds and other wildlife. It also performs well in water gardens or on stream banks. For zones 2-11.
A unique and useful plant for wet areas. It can be used in water gardens, bog gardens, ponds. It will naturalize in wetland areas. Flower spikes are very popular additions to dried flower arrangements.
Narrowleaf cattail is easily identifiable from a distance because of its distinctive, narrow, blade-like green leaves (each to 5' long and 5/16" wide) and its stiff unbranched flower stalk which blooms from May to July and is topped by a poker-like, sausage-brown flower spike (5/8 to 1 1/4" diameter) which purportedly resembles a cattail.
A marginal, semi-aquatic, herbaceous perennial that typically grows from extensive creeping rhizomes to 3-7’ tall, often forming, over time, dense stands of robust spreading vegetation. It is native to wet, often mucky soils, including areas of shallow water to 12" deep, in fresh and brackish marshes, swamps, ditches, water margins of rivers and ponds, and along various other wetland areas in North America, Europe and Asia.
Narrowleaf cattail has year-round edible uses: (a) the peeled rhizomes can be cooked like potatoes or dried and made into protein-rich flour which can be added as a thickener for soups; (b) the young spring shoots are juicy with a nutty flavor and can be used as an asparagus substitute; (c) the young immature flowers can be boiled and eaten somewhat like corn on the cob; (d) the base of the leaves can be eaten like an artichoke; (e) the flowers can be eaten raw or cooked. Leaves are not edible but may be woven into mats, seats and baskets.
Typha can be used as a source of starch to produce ethanol. Because of their high productivity in northern latitudes, Typha are considered to be a bioenergy crop. A perennial plant for zones 2-11.
Cumin has been in use since ancient times. Seeds excavated at one site have been dated to the second millennium BC. In the ancient Egyptian civilisation cumin was used as spice and as preservative in mummification.
Originally cultivated in Iran and the Mediterranean region, cumin is mentioned in the Bible in both the Old Testament (Isaiah 28:27) and the New Testament (Matthew 23:23). The ancient Greeks kept cumin at the dining table in its own container (much as pepper is frequently kept today), and this practice continues in Morocco. Cumin was also used heavily in ancient Roman cuisine.
It was introduced to the Americas by Spanish and Portuguese colonists. There are several different types of cumin but the most famous ones are black and green cumin which are both used in Persian cuisine.
In India, cumin has been used for millennia as a traditional ingredient of innumerable kormas, masalas, soups, and other spiced gravies.
Cumin is a classic culinary herb grown for its highly aromatic seeds, which are treasured around the world for their warm, earthy, slightly nutty flavor. Essential in Mexican, Indian, Middle Eastern, North African, and Mediterranean cooking, Cumin is one of the most widely used spices in the kitchen and a rewarding plant for gardeners who enjoy growing their own seasonings.
Plants produce delicate, finely divided foliage similar to dill or fennel, followed by small umbrella-shaped clusters of white to pale pink flowers. Once the flowers mature, they form the flavorful seeds that are harvested, dried, and used whole or ground in countless recipes.
Cumin is excellent for seasoning chili, tacos, curries, soups, stews, roasted vegetables, rice dishes, breads, beans, meats, and spice blends. It is especially important in curry powders, chili powders, garam masala, taco seasoning, and many traditional spice mixtures.
In the garden, Cumin also has ornamental and pollinator value. Its airy flowers attract bees, hoverflies, and other beneficial insects, making it a useful companion plant in herb gardens, vegetable gardens, and pollinator plantings.
Uses and Benefits- Produces aromatic edible seeds with warm, earthy flavor.
- Essential spice for Mexican, Indian, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean cooking.
- Excellent for chili, tacos, curries, soups, stews, beans, and rice dishes.
- Used in curry powder, chili powder, garam masala, and spice blends.
- Attractive feathery foliage adds texture to herb gardens.
- Small flowers attract bees and beneficial insects.
- Useful companion plant in vegetable and herb gardens.
- Can be grown in containers, raised beds, or garden plots.
- Rewarding choice for gardeners who enjoy growing culinary spices.
Cumin is grown as an annual in all USDA Zones. It performs best in warm climates or during long, sunny growing seasons.
Germination Instructions- Sow seeds outdoors after all danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed.
- For an early start, sow indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost.
- Plant seeds about 1/4 inch deep.
- Maintain temperatures between 65-75°F.
- Keep soil lightly moist but not soggy.
- Seeds typically germinate in 7-14 days.
- Transplant carefully, as Cumin does not like root disturbance.
- Plant in full sun for best seed production.
- Prefers well-drained soil and warm growing conditions.
- Water regularly while young, then moderately as plants mature.
- Allow seed heads to fully mature and dry before harvesting.
- Harvest seeds when they turn brown and become aromatic.
- Excellent for containers, sunny herb gardens, and edible landscapes.
With its fragrant seeds, delicate foliage, pollinator-friendly flowers, and worldwide culinary importance, Cumin is a fascinating and useful herb for the home garden. Growing your own Cumin gives gardeners the satisfaction of producing one of the world's most beloved spices right from seed.
Anise is a fragrant annual herb prized for its sweet licorice-like flavor, delicate ferny foliage, and clusters of attractive white flowers. For centuries, Anise has been cultivated throughout Europe, Asia, and the Mediterranean region as a culinary herb, medicinal plant, pollinator attractor, and ornamental garden favorite.
The aromatic seeds are the most famous part of the plant, widely used to flavor breads, cookies, cakes, candies, teas, liqueurs, and traditional recipes from around the world. The pleasant licorice flavor makes Anise a favorite ingredient for home bakers, herbalists, and culinary enthusiasts alike.
In the garden, Anise serves many purposes beyond the kitchen. The delicate white flower umbels attract a wide variety of beneficial insects, including bees, butterflies, hoverflies, and parasitic wasps that help support a healthy garden ecosystem. As a result, Anise is often grown as a companion plant near vegetables, herbs, and fruit crops.
The attractive foliage and airy flowers also make Anise an excellent addition to herb gardens, cottage gardens, pollinator gardens, and ornamental borders. Plants perform well in containers, raised beds, and traditional garden plots.
Uses and Benefits:- Produces highly aromatic seeds with a sweet licorice flavor.
- Popular for breads, cookies, cakes, candies, and pastries.
- Excellent ingredient for herbal teas and traditional beverages.
- Widely used in flavoring liqueurs and specialty drinks.
- Attracts bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects.
- Useful companion plant in vegetable and herb gardens.
- Provides nectar for pollinators throughout the growing season.
- Beautiful fern-like foliage adds ornamental value.
- Excellent for herb gardens, cottage gardens, and containers.
- Historically grown for culinary, aromatic, and traditional herbal uses.
- Easy to grow from seed and rewarding for beginning gardeners.
Anise is grown as an annual in all USDA Zones. Plants complete their life cycle in a single growing season and produce abundant seed before frost.
Germination Instructions:- Sow seeds directly outdoors after danger of frost has passed.
- Anise develops a taproot and generally performs best when direct sown.
- Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep in well-drained soil.
- Maintain soil temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C).
- Keep soil evenly moist during germination.
- Seeds typically germinate in 10-21 days.
- Thin seedlings to allow good air circulation and growth.
- Plant in full sun for best growth and seed production.
- Prefers fertile, well-drained soil.
- Water regularly during dry periods.
- Allow flower heads to mature if harvesting seed.
- Excellent companion plant for attracting beneficial insects.
- Harvest seeds when they turn gray-brown and fully mature.
Combining culinary value, pollinator appeal, companion planting benefits, fragrant foliage, and ornamental beauty, Anise remains one of the most useful and rewarding herbs for the home garden. Whether grown for its flavorful seeds, beneficial insect attraction, or graceful appearance, this classic herb deserves a place in every herb garden.
Hyssop is also used symbolically in the Bible. When the Israelites marked their door posts with lamb's blood in order for the angel of death to pass over them, God instructed them to use a bunch of hyssop as a "paintbrush"(Exodus 12:22). This was probably because hyssop was sturdy and could withstand the brushing, but it also likely signified that God was marking His people as "pure" and not targets of the judgment God was about to deal out to the Egyptians.
David also mentions hyssop in Psalm 51:7: "Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow". David does not refer to physical cleansing-rather, he is asking God to cleanse him spiritually as he confesses his sin.
Hyssop also appears at Jesus' crucifixion, when the Roman soldiers offered Jesus a drink of wine vinegar on a sponge at the end of a stalk of hyssop (John 19:28-30). This was, in fact, Jesus' last act before He declared His work on earth finished and gave up His spirit. While the hyssop stalk may have been used for purely practical purposes (i.e., it was long enough to reach to Jesus' mouth as He hung on the cross), it is interesting that that particular plant was chosen. It is possible that God meant this as a picture of purification, as Jesus bought our forgiveness with His sacrifice. Just as in the Old Testament blood and hyssop purified a defiled person, so Jesus' shed blood purifies us from the defilement of our sin.
The Hyssop herb is an aromatic plant, and the young leaves are somewhat bitter and minty in flavor. A widely used culinary herb, both the flowers and leaves are used in salads although the leaves are much stronger in flavor. It is also used to flavor pork, chicken, soups, teas and stuffing.
Hyssop is also considered to be a medicinal herb, with the oil obtained from the leaves used to make herbal baths and facials.
Hyssop is an excellent bee plant. Legend has it that beekeepers rubbed their hives with hyssop and other herbs to encourage bees to stay. Hyssop also attracts hummingbirds and butterflies; claims that it keeps cabbage butterflies away from crops or repels flea beetles have not been substantiated.
A perennial hardy in zones 3 to 10.
We offer the Florida Broadleaf variety of mustard as it is a wonderful garden variety mustard. Plant produces good yields of flavorful green mustard leaves. Excellent greens used in salads, sandwiches, or cooked. This variety bolts slower than other varieties. High in Vitamin A, B, and C. Excellent freezing and canning variety. A traditional Southern favorite. Grows 24" tall, produces in 45 days.
Rue is a fascinating old-world herb that has been cultivated for centuries for its ornamental beauty, aromatic foliage, and historical significance. This attractive perennial forms a compact mound of finely divided blue-green leaves that provide striking contrast in herb gardens, cottage gardens, and mixed borders. During summer, clusters of cheerful yellow flowers appear above the foliage, attracting pollinators and beneficial insects.
Native to the Mediterranean region, Rue thrives in sunny, dry locations and is remarkably tolerant of heat, drought, and poor soils. The plant's distinctive fragrance has made it a traditional companion plant in gardens, while its ornamental qualities make it an excellent choice for edging pathways, herb collections, and xeriscape plantings.
Rue is easy to grow and requires little maintenance once established. Its unique foliage remains attractive throughout the growing season, providing texture and color even when not in bloom.
Hardiness Zones:Rue is a hardy perennial in USDA Zones 4-9. In colder regions, plants may die back during winter but typically return from the roots in spring.
Germination Instructions:- Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost, or direct sow outdoors after danger of frost has passed.
- Press seeds lightly into the soil surface and cover with no more than 1/8 inch of fine soil.
- Maintain soil temperatures between 65-75°F.
- Keep the seed-starting mix lightly moist but not wet.
- Germination typically occurs in 14-28 days.
- Provide bright light after seedlings emerge.
- Transplant outdoors when seedlings are large enough to handle and weather has warmed.
- Plant in full sun for best growth and flowering.
- Prefers well-drained soil and tolerates poor, rocky conditions.
- Once established, Rue is highly drought tolerant.
- Avoid overwatering, especially in heavy soils.
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact shape.
- Excellent for herb gardens, pollinator gardens, and xeriscape landscapes.
Note: The sap of Rue may cause skin irritation or increased sensitivity to sunlight in some individuals. Wear gloves when handling plants if you have sensitive skin.
Contact Us | Privacy Policy | About Us
| Returns
Serving gardeners since 1992
State of Mississippi Seedmen's Permit #C-391, Ohio 90152, Minnesota 20086777