Regions: west

A winter annual of the north-west, grown for the thyme-scented seed.

Plant a knob of market haldi in June; harvest your own in February.

The same trick as turmeric, in slightly more shade and slightly less time.

A slender twiner of scrub and hedges, with fragrant roots and small dark flowers.

A slow, tough native tree for a hot courtyard, with fruit that makes the summer sherbet.

A fine-leaved climber with tuberous roots, happiest scrambling up a partly shaded wall.

The bitter herb of the monsoon — quick from seed and a reliable pot plant.

The dark-leaved tulsi, sharper in scent and a little slower to grow than the green.

Thick scented leaves on a succulent stem; one plant fills a windowsill pot for years.

The pennywort of damp corners; spreads by runners and asks for shade and moisture.