Victorians sent whole messages in flowers. Herbs carried the oldest and plainest meanings of all — and unlike a bouquet, they last long enough for the message to sink in.
Every meaning below is traditional symbolism, not a health claim.
The most famous herb meaning in the English language — "there's rosemary, that's for remembrance." Carried at both weddings and funerals for centuries.
Care: Full sun. Let it dry between waterings. Best planted outdoors in Austin once established.
Medieval knights carried sprigs of thyme into battle, and their ladies embroidered it on scarves. A small plant that has always meant bravery.
Care: Full sun. Very drought tolerant — the most forgiving herb we grow.
From the Latin salvia. An old English proverb held that sage flourishing in the garden meant wisdom flourishing in the house.
Care: Full sun. Silver-green leaves; let the soil dry between waterings.
The laurel wreath crowned victors at the ancient games and poets at their laureateship. The original symbol of achievement earned.
Care: Full sun to part shade. Slow-growing and long-lived — a bay can outlast the person who gave it.
Tucked into linen chests and bridal bouquets for centuries as a token of steady, quiet devotion.
Care: Full sun and sharp drainage. Hates wet feet — err on the side of dry.
The name descends from the Greek for "brightness of the mountain." Aphrodite was said to have grown it as a symbol of gladness.
Care: Full sun. Vigorous and cheerful; trim it often and it thickens.
Traditionally read as "patience in adversity" — the plant that grows back the more it is walked upon.
Care: Full sun to light shade. Low, spreading, apple-scented underfoot.
Victors at the Greek games wore parsley crowns before laurel took over. The herb of festivity and the feast.
Care: Wants steady moisture — unlike our other herbs. Ships in its own pot for exactly that reason.