Rosemary under the front flower bed bird feeder

This has got to bet favorite herb of them all. The scent is more heavenly than lavender--probably because the Baby Jesus parted His sweet scent to it when Our Blessed Mother used it to hang His little white gown on to dry during the course of Their flight into Egypt. What could smell more beautiful than that?

Burning Bush

It's about to burst--but not into flames--it won't look like it's on fire until the Fall.

Hostas off the Front Porch

Sally brought these all the way from New York. Few years ago and we've divided them a couple times. They're still going strong!

Tadpoles in the Pond

Most likely Pseudacris crucifer--Spring Peepers!

Blue Mophead Hydrangeas under my Balcony

Hydrangea macrophylla

These will be blue in May!
From Methods of Healing:

The substances from the root of the hydrangea plant are a welcomed alternative to current treatments for immune-related medical conditions. There are many benefits to adopting this recipe in a treatment plan for these types of disorders.

Researchers have found that they can make a medication, halofuginone (derived from the roots of the plant) that serves to keep the body from producing harmful white blood cells that are commonly associated with immune system diseases. It can do this without interfering with health immune system functioning.

Narrow Leafed Plantain by the Garden

Plantago lanceolata, Plantagenaceae

From Health From Nature:

Ribwort Plantain makes an effective treatment for wound bleeding. It contains epidermal growth factor, stimulating the repair of damaged tissue. Leaves extract has antibacterial properties. Plantain can be used in an asortment of treatments: diarrhea, gastritis, hemorrhage, hemorrhoids, in cases of irritable bowel, against bronchitis, catarrh, sinusitis and asthma. Externally, decoction obtained from the leaves is used in cases of skin inflammations, cuts, stings and malignant ulcers. Plantain root is useful in cases of rattlesnake bite. Seeds, having a high mucilage content, are a good remedy against parasitic worms. Distilled water made from the plant makes an excellent eye lotion. Tea made from the seed is helpful in treatment of diarrhea, dysentery and bleedings of mucous membranes.

Yellowdock Beside the Garden

Rumex crispus, Plygonaceae

From My Best Remedies:

This widespread weed can be found throughout North America and Europe where it grows up to 3 feet tall. The leaves of the plant are edible and can be prepared like spinach. They are rich in vitamins A, B, and C, and calcium, iron, and potassium. They make a nice spring salad and come out most conveniently when our bodies need it most -- after a long winter of overindulgence.

The root should be collected in spring or autumn and has been used by numerous American natives to yield a yellow dye.

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Remedies

Fig Buds beside the Porch

This was a birthday present for Rachel a number of years ago. We've enjoyed many figs from this tree--as have our bees!

Chickweed in front of the Garage

We've got gobs and gobs of this tasty salad "weed" all over Schamelot, but it really seems to love this location by the garage wall facing the southern sun.