Ideal for rich foods plus traditional sage and onion stuffing with duck and goose. A useful gargle for sore throats. And don't forget that it also looks great in the perennial border. Companion Plant: Reputed to ward off carrot fly planted next to carrots. With cabbage said to improve their flavour and digestibility and to repel Cabbage Moth and Cabbage White Butterfly.

Sow in early spring in good free draining seed compost, just covering the seed. Germination usually takes 10-21 days at 21-24C (70-75F).

When seedlings are large enough to handle transplant into 8cm (3in) pots, grow cool and finally plant out 38cm (15in) apart into a sunny spot in free draining soil.

For best results, provide any well-drained soil in full sun, however try to avoid acidic soils. The flavour of the leaves will be best in warm, dry conditions. To keep plants bushy, prune in spring to encourage new shoots with strong flavour. Harvest leaves as and when required once plants are well grown.

Ideal stuffing for pork and numerous fish and meat dishes, soups and stews. Delicious mixed with cream cheese. Nature's Remedy: Reputed to have antiseptic qualities useful against flu, sore throats, laryngitis, hay fever and stress. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoonful of leaves, cover and infuse for several minutes. Strain and sweeten with honey if wished. Best taken only for a week or two at a time as excessive use may prove harmful.