Was I running a competition to select the best herb of 2014? Obviously because here is the post with all these words about how Balm of Gilead (Cedronella canariensis) is an awesome herb that you should find a space for.

You’ll need about four feet across and a little higher up, protect it from chickens scratching at the delicate stems when becoming established, plus plenty of water will see it thrive. The flowers attract bees, and it is a natural insect repellent – I’ve got it growing right up against the chicken coop and throw in a handful of those leaves whenever I see the hens getting bothered by mosquitoes. The leaves and stems have a distinct odor that gives Rue a run for its money, and about as potent for clearing the coop of bugs.

And those lovely delicate purple flowers. Thank you Balm of Gilead, my herb of 2014 😉