Wild Herbs that Grow in the Midwest

Geography

• The Midwestern United States includes the plant growing zones 4a, 4b and 3b in the north, and between 5a and 11 in the south. This means that plants can generally tolerate winter temperature fluctuations between -35 and -20 degrees Fahrenheit in the north and -15 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit in the south. This means that nearly all wild herbs growing in the United States can be found in the Midwest.

Types

• Chickweed, henbit, spearmint, peppermint and edible flowers like violets can be found growing wild in the Midwest. New Jersey tea, lamb's quarters, peppergrass, sumac and wild ginger are also found in the Midwest.

Considerations

• Not all wild herbs are found in the same places. Herbs like chickweed and henbit are found in fields and near lawns, but peppermint often grows near water. New Jersey tea is found in wooded areas, and the spinach-like lamb's quarters is considered a garden weed and may be growing in your own backyard.