Hyssop Seeds
Hyssopus officinalis
Hyssop is a hardy evergreen, forming a small bush that can be pruned to form formal edgings. Iridescent blue flowers cover long spikes in profusion. Having a strong flavor and aroma, the ancients used it to preserve meat and as a cleaning agent. The name comes from the Hebrew 'Azob', meaning 'holy plant.' Hyssop was grown in every medieval monastery garden, believed to ward off the evil eye. Its fairly strong flavor was used in soups, stews and dressings. Tea made from the leaves has been used to treat asthma, colds, fevers and indigestion.