from the Pennyroyal Papers, the newsletter of The New England Unit of The Herb Society of America, will appear on this page from time to time.
Our newsletter was named for American pennyroyal, which is botanically known as Hedeoma pulegioides. The Native Americans introduced the Colonists to this plant, which has properties similar to European pennyroyal, Mentha pulegium. These plants are now considered toxic and should not be ingested.
The Native Americans introduced several plants to the Colonists, including bergamot or Oswego tea -Monarda didyma. How else could we have survived the Boston tea party? The true bergamot flavoring in black tea comes from the citrus orange, Citrus Aurantium spp. Bergamia.
The Herb Society of America is dedicated to promoting the knowledge, use and delight of herbs through educational programs, research and sharing the experience of its members through the community.
The Society does not give advice on the medicinal uses of herbs.
NEU Blue Ribbon Entry - 2008 New England Spring Flower Show
The New England Unit won a Blue Ribbon for its Window Box entry and the award for the Best Window Box in the Amateur Horticulture category in the New England Spring Flower Show in March. Beryl Feldman led the effort supported by fellow members Gil Moore, Barri Throop, Laura Gifford, Jennifer Brindisi and Riekie Sluder. Special thanks go to Warren Leach of Tranquil Lake Nursery who allowed the committee to use his greenhouse.
From the Spring 2008 edition of the Pennyroyal Papers-
Jennifer Brindisi helps apply the finishing touches to the window box display. Photos taken before the exhibit was open to the public.
