Texas is weird. Growing and collecting herbs is a hard call. Some general factors herbalists consider when harvesting wild plants in Central Texas the most influential factors for collecting herbs in the wild are temperature, light, how much rain we’ve gotten, and vegetation zone.
We have several overlapping vegetation zones here and get a great mix of medicinals. Please make sure you are properly trained if you are considering harvesting plants from wild areas.
MY FAVORITE GARDEN PLANTS
Jan-April WINTER TO EARLY SPRING: Calendula, Cilantro, Borage, Poppies of all kinds, Dandelion, Chickweed, Cleavers, Violets, Evening Primrose, Yarrow, Plantain, Wild Oats, and Garden Greens
May-July LATE SPRING TO EARLY SUMMER: Bee Balm, Skullcap, Vervain, Agarita, Lemon Balm, Mint, Tomatoes, Squash, Melons, Alfalfa, Honeysuckle, Basil, Mugworts, Lavender, Desert Willow
Aug-Oct LATE SUMMER TO EARLY FALL: Vitex, Goldenrod, Sunflowers, Grindelia, Lobelia, Peppers, Passionflower, Lambs Quarters, Elderberries, Okra, Basil, Rue
LATE FALL–Root harvests if Appropriate—-Echinacea