Hyssopus officinalis
HERB-HYSSOP-BLUE (JUFA) (SALE) an evergreen shrub used as a food & medicinal herb a 30-60cm tall shrub. Stems begin from a single base & are covered in small green scented leaves.
The blue flowers are borne on the top parts of the stem in summer & are harvested & dried. Plants may die back in very cold areas & reshoot in spring. As a herb, the young green stem tips & flowers may be added to cooking or salads.
Hyssop is used for the healing assets of its volatile oils, extract by steeping the dried or fresh green leafy stems in hot water to make a soothing tea. Due to its slight bitter & minty flavour, it is used in soups, salads & meats.
The essential oil of the herb is credited with its astringent, expectorant & anti-inflammatory properties. As a tonic, it is known to lower fevers. A member of the Mint family it attracts bees & butterflies, re-seeds well. In Autumn, new plants can be created by root division.