The New American Herbal: An Herb Gardening Book [TOP]

: The book contains profiles for nearly 1,000 herbal plants, with detailed entries for over 125.

: It includes 40 to 45 original recipes—such as Ragu Bolognese with Fennel and Lemon Semolina Cake with Lavender—alongside DIY crafts like hanging herb gardens and topiaries. The New American Herbal: An Herb Gardening Book

The New American Herbal: An Herb Gardening Book by Stephen Orr (2014) is a contemporary reimagining of the classic encyclopedic herbal, blending botanical history with practical modern horticulture. Spanning 384 pages, it serves as a comprehensive resource for identifying, growing, and utilizing a vast spectrum of herbs. Core Philosophy and Structure : The book contains profiles for nearly 1,000

Reviewers often note that while it is an excellent horticultural guide, it is less of an in-depth clinical text for medicinal practice. Its strength lies in its balance—offering just enough history and folklore to be engaging, while remaining firmly grounded in practical cultivation and modern use. Spanning 384 pages, it serves as a comprehensive

Stephen Orr is a veteran garden authority, having served as the editor-in-chief of Better Homes and Gardens and gardening editorial director for Martha Stewart Living . His expertise is rooted in firsthand experience, much of which he documents in his other works like Tomorrow’s Garden and The Gardener’s Mindset . Critical Perspective