9 Herbs You’ve Never Heard Of But Should Be Growing • Schisandra & Bergamot

Basil, mint, and rosemary are kitchen staples—but there’s a whole world of lesser-known herbs waiting to add bold flavor and unique benefits to your garden. These underrated picks are easy to grow and full of surprises.

Papalo

A close-up view of fresh green sesbania leaves and stems arranged in a pile. — Photo Credit: ottoblotto/Deposit Photos

This bold-flavored Mexican herb is often used as a cilantro substitute, especially in tacos and salsas. It has a sharp, peppery taste and thrives in hot weather where cilantro wilts.

Ajwain (Carom)

Close-up of several clusters of green, umbrella-shaped wildflower heads against a soft, blurry background. — Photo Credit: Flyingwaterfalls/Pixabay

Common in Indian cooking, ajwain leaves have a thyme-like flavor with a hint of oregano. The plant is easy to grow in pots and has digestive benefits.

Lemon Verbena

A close-up of a green leafy stem with elongated, narrow leaves against a white background. — Photo Credit: BZH2224/Deposit Photos

Known for its intense lemon scent, this herb is perfect for teas, desserts, and homemade body care. It grows as a shrub and needs plenty of sun and warmth.

Korean Perilla (Shiso’s Cousin)

Close-up of a cluster of purple shiso leaves growing outdoors, with sunlight highlighting the leaf textures and edges. — Photo Credit: Alexas_Fotos/Pixabay

Often used in Korean BBQ wraps and pickles, this herb has a slightly nutty, minty flavor. It’s attractive in the garden and packed with antioxidants.

Mexican Tarragon (Tagetes lucida)

Cluster of small yellow flowers with green leaves in the background, photographed in natural sunlight. — Photo Credit: nahhan/Deposit Photos

A warm-climate alternative to French tarragon, it has an anise-like flavor and produces bright yellow flowers that also attract pollinators.

Cuban Oregano

Close-up of a green plant with broad, serrated leaves and a fuzzy texture, growing outdoors with soil and other vegetation visible in the background. — Photo Credit: PoiemaDesignStudio/Pixabay

Thicker and juicier than regular oregano, this fuzzy-leaved plant has a strong aroma and makes a great ornamental edible. It also grows well indoors.

Betel Leaf

A round bamboo tray filled with fresh green leaves, placed on a white surface, with palm fronds in the background. — Photo Credit: bowonpats/Envato

Popular in Southeast Asia, betel leaves are peppery and often used for wrapping food. The vining plant enjoys warm, humid conditions and looks striking in hanging baskets.

Winter Savory

Person in plaid shirt and overalls holding a large bundle of fresh green herbs in an outdoor garden setting. — Photo Credit: valeriygoncharukphoto/Envato

This robust, peppery herb is ideal for seasoning meats and hearty dishes. It’s a perennial in mild climates and a great addition to herb gardens that need a bit of spice.

Spilanthes (Toothache Plant)

Green leaves and several round, yellow flowers with red centers, known as Spilanthes or toothache plant, are shown growing densely together. — Photo Credit: [email protected]/Deposit Photos

Also called the “buzz button,” its flowers produce a tingling, numbing effect in your mouth. It’s not only medicinal but also a fun conversation starter in any garden.

These unique herbs offer more than just flavor—they bring new textures, scents, and experiences to your garden. If you're ready to explore beyond the basics, these hidden gems are a great place to start.