Herbs - Seeds

Lavandula dentata

Lavandula dentata is a fragrant evergreen shrub grown for its soft grey-green, finely toothed foliage and delicate spikes of pale purple flowers. Flowering over an extended season in mild climates, it forms an attractive bush reaching around 60–90 cm tall and is equally at home in herb gardens, cottage gardens, containers and low hedges. Its aromatic foliage and flowers are highly attractive to bees and other beneficial pollinators.

Lavender common names can be confusing, as they vary between countries. In Australia, Lavandula dentata is often referred to as Spanish Lavender, while in the United States it is more commonly known as French Lavender. Conversely, Lavandula stoechas is widely called French Lavender in Australia and the United Kingdom, but Spanish Lavender in North America. For this reason, the botanical name is the most reliable way to identify each lavender species.

Approximately 1,000 seeds per gram
Approximately 30 seeds per packet

When to Plant (Australia)

Tropics: April to July
Subtropics: March to May and August to October
Mild climates: March to May and September to November
Cold climates: September to November

Planting / Sowing

Surface sow or lightly cover seed with no more than 2–3 mm of fine seed-raising mix. Refrigerating seed for 2–4 weeks before sowing may improve germination. Keep the mix evenly moist but not waterlogged at 18–22°C. Transplant seedlings into a sunny position with well-drained soil or large containers, spacing plants 40–60 cm apart. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact, bushy habit.

Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.

Melissa officinalis

Lemon Balm is a fragrant perennial herb treasured for its fresh lemon scent, attractive foliage and long history of culinary and traditional herbal use. The botanical name Melissa officinalis originates from the ancient Greek word melissa, meaning "bee", a reference to the plant's remarkable ability to attract bees and other pollinators. Growing to around 60–90 cm tall, it forms a bushy clump of bright green leaves that release a delightful citrus fragrance when brushed or crushed.

A versatile herb, Lemon Balm is widely used in herbal teas, desserts, salads, fruit dishes and refreshing summer drinks. Traditionally, it has been valued for its calming properties and is often used to promote relaxation, restful sleep and digestive comfort. Easy to grow in both garden beds and containers, it thrives in full sun to partial shade and benefits from regular harvesting, which encourages fresh, tender growth throughout the season.

Approximately 2,300 seeds per gram
Approximately 360 seeds per packet

When to Plant (Australia)

Tropics: April to August
Subtropics: March to September
Mild climates: March to October
Cold climates: September to November

Planting / Sowing

Surface sow or lightly press seed into the surface of a fine seed-raising mix, as light assists germination. Keep evenly moist and maintain temperatures of 18–22°C until seedlings emerge. Transplant into fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade, spacing plants 30–45 cm apart. Harvest leaves regularly to encourage bushy growth. Plants may die back during winter in colder regions but will usually reshoot from the base in spring.

Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.

Linum usitatissimum

Linseed, also known as flax, is a versatile annual grown for both its nutritious seeds and its fibre, which has been used since ancient times to produce linen. The slender plants grow to around 40 cm tall and produce delicate blue flowers. The seeds are naturally rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, fibre and a range of vitamins and minerals. They can be added whole or ground to cereals, breads, crackers, biscuits and other baked goods, soaked overnight for breakfast dishes, or used as a plant-based egg substitute in baking. Linseed also produces excellent microgreens (but is not recommended for sprouting) and is a valued feed supplement for laying poultry. For best germination and freshness, store seed in the refrigerator.

Approximately 5,000 seeds per packet

When to Plant (Australia)
Tropics: April to July
Subtropics: April to August
Mild climates: Autumn to spring
Cold climates: Spring to early summer

Planting / Sowing
Direct sow seed 5–10 mm deep into well drained soil in full sun. Space plants 10–15 cm apart or sow more densely for microgreens. Keep the soil evenly moist until established. Harvest microgreens when young, or allow plants to mature for seed production or ornamental blue flowers.

Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.

Levisticum officinale

Lovage is a vigorous, long-lived perennial herb that can reach an impressive 2.5 m in height, forming a handsome clump of deeply divided aromatic foliage. Often described as having a flavour reminiscent of celery with savoury, yeasty undertones, it has been a valued kitchen herb for centuries. The leaves, stems, seeds and roots are all edible, making it one of the most versatile herbs in the garden.

The fresh leaves are used to add depth and richness to soups, broths, casseroles and savoury dishes, while the seeds can be used as a seasoning and the leaves brewed into a fragrant herbal tea. Traditionally, Lovage has also been used in herbal preparations and was even employed as a natural deodorant. Its tall stature and attractive umbels of yellow-green flowers make it an excellent feature plant in herb and cottage gardens.

Approximately 250 seeds per gram
Approximately 160 seeds per packet

When to Plant (Australia)

Tropics: April to July (cooler districts)
Subtropics: March to May and August to October
Mild climates: March to May and September to November
Cold climates: September to November

Planting / Sowing

Sow seed 5 mm deep in a quality seed-raising mix and keep consistently moist. Lovage seeds can be slow and sometimes irregular to germinate, often taking several weeks. Transplant seedlings into rich, fertile, moisture-retentive soil in full sun or partial shade, spacing plants 60–90 cm apart. Water regularly during dry periods and harvest leaves as needed throughout the growing season.

Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.

Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow is a graceful perennial herb with soft, velvety grey-green leaves and delicate pale pink to white flowers that bloom throughout the warmer months. Growing to around 1–1.5 m tall, it brings both beauty and usefulness to cottage gardens, herb gardens and pollinator plantings. Its nectar-rich flowers attract bees and other beneficial insects, while its elegant form provides interest throughout the growing season.

Historically valued in traditional herbal medicine for its soothing qualities, Marshmallow has been cultivated for centuries as both a medicinal and edible plant. The young leaves, flowers, immature seed pods and roots are all edible. Young leaves can be added to salads or cooked as greens, while the flowers make an attractive garnish. The roots are traditionally harvested from mature plants and have long been used in herbal preparations.

Approximately 280 seeds per gram
Approximately 40 seeds per packet

When to Plant (Australia)

Tropics: April to August
Subtropics: March to September
Mild climates: March to October
Cold climates: September to November

Planting / Sowing

Sow seed 5 mm deep in a quality seed-raising mix and keep evenly moist until germination. Germination is often improved by soaking seed overnight before sowing. Transplant seedlings into a sunny or partly shaded position with rich, moisture-retentive, well-drained soil, spacing plants 60–90 cm apart. Regular watering will encourage lush growth, particularly during dry periods. Harvest leaves and flowers as required, and allow roots to develop for several years before harvesting.

Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.

Filipendula ulmaria

Meadowsweet, also known as Queen of the Meadow, is a graceful perennial herb renowned for its clouds of creamy-white, sweetly fragrant flowers that bloom from late spring through summer. Growing to around 1.2 m tall, it produces elegant clusters of blossoms above attractive fern-like foliage, making it a beautiful addition to cottage gardens, wildflower meadows and damp garden areas. The flowers are highly attractive to bees and other pollinating insects.

Traditionally, Meadowsweet has been valued in European herbal medicine for centuries. Rich in naturally occurring salicylates, it has historically been used to support digestive comfort and ease occasional headaches and joint discomfort. The fragrant flowers are commonly used in herbal teas, cordials and traditional preparations, imparting a pleasant sweet aroma and flavour.

Approximately 1,600 seeds per gram
Approximately 130 seeds per packet

When to Plant (Australia)

Tropics: April to July (cooler districts)
Subtropics: March to May and August to October
Mild climates: March to May and September to November
Cold climates: September to November and March to May

Planting / Sowing

Surface sow or lightly cover seed with a fine layer of seed-raising mix. Keep evenly moist throughout germination, as Meadowsweet naturally grows in damp environments. Transplant seedlings into rich, moisture-retentive soil in full sun or partial shade, spacing plants 30–60 cm apart. Regular watering is essential, particularly during warm weather, and plants perform best where the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.

Silybum marianum

Milk Thistle, also known as St. Mary's Thistle, is a striking biennial herb with bold, glossy green leaves marbled with distinctive white markings and large vibrant purple flower heads. Growing up to 2 m tall, it creates a dramatic feature in herb gardens, cottage gardens and wildlife plantings. The nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies and other beneficial insects throughout the warmer months.

For centuries, Milk Thistle has been cultivated as both a medicinal and edible plant. The seeds are traditionally used in herbal preparations, particularly in relation to liver health. Young leaves, once carefully prepared to remove the spines, and flower stems have also been eaten as a vegetable, while the immature flower buds may be prepared similarly to globe artichokes. The plant produces a characteristic milky white sap when cut, giving rise to its common name.

Approximately 38 seeds per gram
Approximately 20 seeds per packet

When to Plant (Australia)

Tropics: April to August
Subtropics: March to September
Mild climates: March to October
Cold climates: September to November and March to May

Planting / Sowing

Sow seed 5–10 mm deep directly where plants are to grow or into seed trays for later transplanting. Keep the soil evenly moist until germination. Plant in full sun with well-drained soil, spacing plants 60–90 cm apart to accommodate their large size. Once established, Milk Thistle is drought tolerant and requires little maintenance. Wear gloves when handling mature plants due to their spiny leaves and stems.

Not Available for TAS

Not Available for WA

Leonurus cardiaca

Motherwort, often called the “mother’s herb”, is a hardy herbaceous perennial belonging to the mint family (Lamiaceae). Its botanical name reflects its long traditional association with both courage and the heart: Leonurus translates roughly to “lion-tailed”, while cardiaca means “of the heart”. Native to Europe but now naturalised across much of the world, Motherwort is a resilient plant that readily colonises disturbed ground and can become invasive in favourable conditions.

Growing to around 1 m tall, it produces distinctive square stems, deeply lobed leaves and whorls of soft mauve to pale pink flowers that attract bees and other beneficial insects throughout summer. Motherwort thrives in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade and, once established, requires very little maintenance.

Traditionally, Motherwort has been highly regarded in Western herbal medicine as a tonic herb for the nervous and cardiovascular systems. It contains the phytochemical leonurine and has historically been used to support emotional wellbeing, calm a racing heart and mind, and promote a sense of ease during times of stress. The aerial parts of the plant are harvested and used in herbal preparations. Individuals taking heart or thyroid medications should seek advice from a qualified healthcare practitioner before using Motherwort medicinally.

Approximately 1,200 seeds per gram
Approximately 200 seeds per packet

When to Plant (Australia)

Tropics: April to July
Subtropics: March to August
Mild climates: March to September
Cold climates: September to November

Planting / Sowing

Motherwort benefits from cold stratification to improve germination. Refrigerate seed for 2–4 weeks before sowing, or sow outdoors during cooler weather. Sow seed on the surface or cover lightly with 2–3 mm of seed-raising mix and keep evenly moist. Transplant seedlings into fertile, well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade, spacing plants 45–60 cm apart. Once established, plants are hardy, drought tolerant and generally require little attention.

Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.

Artemisia vulgaris

Mugwort is a hardy, aromatic perennial herb valued for its silvery-green foliage, resilience and long history of traditional use. Growing up to 1.5 m tall, it forms vigorous clumps that thrive in well-drained soil and full sun, although it will also tolerate partial shade and poorer soils. Its deeply divided leaves release a distinctive herbal fragrance when crushed, and the plant is highly regarded for its ability to attract beneficial insects while helping repel a range of garden pests.

Traditionally, Mugwort has been used in herbal medicine to support digestion, ease menstrual discomfort and promote relaxation. It has also been employed in culinary, ceremonial and practical applications throughout Europe and Asia. Once established, Mugwort is drought tolerant and requires little maintenance, making it well suited to herb gardens, cottage gardens and naturalistic plantings.

Mugwort spreads readily by both seed and underground rhizomes and can become invasive if left unmanaged. For this reason, many gardeners prefer to grow it in containers or regularly divide plants to keep growth under control.

Approximately 10,000 seeds per gram
Approximately 1,600 seeds per packet

When to Plant (Australia)

Tropics: April to July
Subtropics: March to August
Mild climates: March to September
Cold climates: September to November and March to May

Planting / Sowing

Surface sow seed onto moist soil or seed-raising mix, as light assists germination. Do not cover seed. Keep evenly moist and allow 20 days or more for germination. Transplant seedlings into a sunny or partly shaded position with well-drained soil, spacing plants approximately 60 cm apart. Once established, Mugwort is drought tolerant and requires minimal care. Monitor its spread or grow in containers to prevent it from overtaking nearby plants.

Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.

Verbascum phoeniceum 

Purple Mullein 'Violetta' is a striking ornamental perennial grown for its elegant spikes of rich, deep purple flowers that rise above attractive green foliage. Reaching approximately 60 cm in height, it provides a long-lasting display from late spring through summer and makes an excellent addition to cottage gardens, pollinator plantings and cut flower gardens. The vibrant blooms are highly attractive to bees and other beneficial insects.

Native to parts of Europe, including the United Kingdom, this drought-tolerant species thrives in sunny positions and well-drained soils. Unlike the towering common mullein, Verbascum phoeniceum forms a more compact clump, making it well suited to garden borders and smaller spaces. The flowers are excellent for cutting and add height and colour to floral arrangements.

Traditionally, species within the Verbascum genus have been valued in herbal medicine, and Violetta is noted for naturally occurring compounds with antimicrobial properties. Today it is primarily cultivated as an attractive ornamental and pollinator plant.

Approximately 8,000–10,000 seeds per gram
Approximately 500 seeds per packet

When to Plant (Australia)

Tropics: April to July
Subtropics: March to August
Mild climates: March to September
Cold climates: September to November

Planting / Sowing

Surface sow seed onto moist seed-raising mix and press gently into the surface, as light assists germination. Do not cover seed. Keep evenly moist until seedlings emerge. Transplant into a sunny position with well-drained soil, spacing plants 30–40 cm apart. Once established, Purple Mullein is highly drought tolerant and performs best in areas with good air circulation and minimal summer humidity.

Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety.

Not Available for WA.

Tropaeolum majus

Nasturtium is a colourful, easy-to-grow heirloom prized for its vibrant edible flowers and rounded leaves, both of which add a peppery flavour to salads, sandwiches and garnishes. Commonly known as Indian Cress, it originated in South America and has long been valued as both an ornamental and companion plant. Rich in vitamin C, nasturtiums are traditionally associated with herbal use and are excellent for attracting beneficial insects while helping to deter aphids and other garden pests. They make an effective living groundcover beneath cucurbits, brassicas, beans, tomatoes and potatoes.

Approximately 8 seeds per gram
Approximately 17 seeds per packet

When to Plant (Australia)

Tropics: April to July
Subtropics: March to September
Mild climates: Spring to autumn
Cold climates: Spring to summer

Planting / Sowing

Sow seed directly where plants are to grow, covering with 15–20 mm of soil. Prefers a sunny position and well-drained soil. Avoid excessive fertiliser, as this encourages leafy growth at the expense of flowers. Space plants 25–40 cm apart. Harvest leaves and flowers as required throughout the growing season.

Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.

Tropaeolum majus

Nasturtium is a fast-growing, easy-care flowering plant valued for both its ornamental beauty and practical uses in the garden. Producing masses of brightly coloured blooms in shades of yellow, orange and red, it is ideal for borders, vegetable gardens, containers and as a living groundcover. Although technically a short-lived perennial in frost-free climates, it is most commonly grown as an annual throughout much of Australia.

Also known as Indian Cress, Nasturtium originated in South America, particularly Peru, and has been cultivated around the world for centuries. Both the flowers and leaves are edible, adding a fresh peppery flavour and vibrant colour to salads, sandwiches and garnishes. The plant is naturally rich in vitamin C and has a long history of traditional use for its antiseptic properties.

Nasturtiums are among the most useful companion plants in the vegetable garden. They help attract pollinators and beneficial insects while acting as a trap crop for aphids and assisting in the deterrence of certain pest insects. They are particularly valuable when grown alongside cucurbits, brassicas, beans, tomatoes and potatoes. Their spreading growth habit also helps suppress weeds and protect soil moisture.

Easy to grow and highly rewarding, Nasturtiums thrive in sunny positions and often flower best in soils that are not overly rich.

Approximately 9 seeds per gram
Approximately 17 seeds per packet

When to Plant (Australia)

Tropics: April to August
Subtropics: March to September
Mild climates: March to October
Cold climates: September to January

Planting / Sowing

Sow seed directly where plants are to grow, 10–15 mm deep in a sunny to partly shaded position. Keep soil evenly moist during germination. Space plants 25–30 cm apart. Nasturtiums prefer well-drained soil and generally produce more flowers when grown in moderately fertile soils. Regular harvesting of flowers and leaves will encourage continued growth throughout the season.

Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.

Urtica dioica

Nettle is one of the most valued medicinal herbs in the Western herbal tradition, prized for its exceptional nutritional profile and wide range of traditional uses. This hardy perennial grows to approximately 1 m tall and produces upright stems clothed in distinctive serrated leaves. While fresh plants are covered in tiny stinging hairs, cooking, drying or processing neutralises the sting completely.

Rich in naturally occurring minerals and nutrients, Nettle contains iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, silica, vitamin A and other trace elements. Traditionally, it has been used as a nourishing tonic to support general wellbeing, vitality and recovery during times of increased nutritional demand. Nettle has also long been valued in herbal medicine for supporting healthy urinary function, seasonal wellbeing and overall vitality.

In the kitchen, young leaves can be steamed, added to soups, made into pesto, infused as a tea or incorporated into a variety of cooked dishes. The flavour is often compared to spinach with a richer, earthier character.

Nettle is equally useful in the garden. Organic growers have traditionally used nettle teas and fermented liquid fertilisers to feed plants, while extracts have been employed as part of natural pest and disease management programs. It thrives in rich, moisture-retentive soils and will tolerate partial shade.

Approximately 6,000 seeds per gram
Approximately 380 seeds per packet

When to Plant (Australia)

Tropics: April to July
Subtropics: March to August
Mild climates: March to September
Cold climates: September to November and March to May

Planting / Sowing

Sow seed on the surface of moist seed-raising mix and lightly press into place. Do not bury deeply, as light assists germination. Keep moist until seedlings emerge. Transplant into rich, fertile soil in a sunny or partly shaded position, spacing plants 40–60 cm apart. Nettle appreciates consistent moisture and will establish into a long-lived perennial patch when grown in suitable conditions.

Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.

Origanum vulgare

Wild Oregano, also known as Italian Oregano or Pot Marjoram, is a hardy perennial herb prized for its aromatic foliage, attractive pink to purple flowers and outstanding culinary versatility. Growing to approximately 60 cm tall, it forms a dense, bushy plant that attracts bees and other beneficial pollinators while providing a reliable harvest of flavourful leaves throughout the year.

A staple of Mediterranean cuisine, Wild Oregano is widely used in Italian cooking, adding its distinctive warm, savoury flavour to pizzas, pasta sauces, casseroles, marinades and roasted vegetables. The leaves can be harvested fresh or dried, with drying often intensifying the flavour.

Beyond the kitchen, Oregano has a long history in traditional herbal medicine. Rich in aromatic compounds such as thymol and carvacrol, it has traditionally been used to support digestive and respiratory health and as a general household herb. Its fragrant foliage also makes it a valuable addition to herb gardens and sensory plantings.

Easy to grow and drought tolerant once established, Wild Oregano thrives in sunny positions and well-drained soils, making it an excellent choice for herb gardens, borders, containers and productive landscapes.

Approximately 9,700 seeds per gram
Approximately 450 seeds per packet

When to Plant (Australia)

Tropics: March to July
Subtropics: August to April
Mild climates: August to April
Cold climates: September to January

Planting / Sowing

Sow seed on the surface of moist seed-raising mix and lightly press into place, as light assists germination. Keep evenly moist until seedlings emerge. Transplant into a sunny position with well-drained soil, spacing plants 30–40 cm apart. Harvest regularly to encourage dense, bushy growth and a continual supply of aromatic leaves.

Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.

Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.

Petroselinum crispum

Giant of Italy is a classic Italian flat-leaf parsley producing an abundance of large, bright green, highly aromatic leaves. Renowned for its rich flavour and vigorous growth, it is ideal for fresh use in salads, sauces, soups and Mediterranean dishes, while also drying well for later use. Regular harvesting encourages a continual supply of tender new leaves throughout the growing season.

Approximately 575 seeds per gram
Approximately 200 seeds per packet

When to Plant (Australia)

Tropics: April to September
Subtropics: March to October
Mild climates: Year round
Cold climates: Spring to autumn

Planting / Sowing

Sow seed 5 mm deep in fertile, well-drained soil or seed trays, keeping the soil consistently moist during germination, which may take 2–4 weeks. Plant in full sun or part shade, spacing plants 20–30 cm apart. Harvest the outer leaves regularly to encourage continuous production and avoid removing the entire plant at once.

Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.