English Thyme

English thyme earns a spot in any herb garden: it's one of the toughest, most useful culinary herbs there is, and unlike tender basil it's a hardy perennial that comes back year after year here in the valley. The low, woody little plant is covered in tiny aromatic leaves for seasoning roasts, soups, and vegetables, and it draws bees when it flowers. It actually prefers lean, well-drained soil and not much water — overwatering is the main way to lose it. Give it full sun and a dry corner and it will thrive with almost no attention.