Herb: meaning, definitions and examples

Used for plants that are valued for their flavor, aroma, or medicinal properties, usually in cooking or natural remedies.

• Fresh basil is a popular herb in Italian recipes
• Mint is often used as an herb in teas

A general term for any living organism in the kingdom Plantae, commonly used when talking about gardening or botany.

• Roses are a beautiful plant for your garden
• It takes time and care to look after a plant properly

Refers to edible plants or parts of plants, typically used in cooking and eaten as part of a savory meal.

• Carrots are a nutritious vegetable enjoyed raw or cooked
• Broccoli is another vegetable that is high in vitamins

Usually refers to substances derived from seeds, fruits, roots, bark, or other parts of plants used to flavor food.

• Cinnamon is a spice that adds warmth to desserts
• Turmeric is a common spice used in Indian cuisine

This is a duplicate and should be combined with the first entry for 'herb'.

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Use 'plant' when referring to any living organism in the kingdom Plantae, particularly when specifying individual organisms.

• She watered the plants in her garden every day
• The new office plant brings some green into the room

Use 'vegetation' when talking about plant life as a whole, especially in larger, natural areas.

• The lush vegetation covered the hillside
• Removing native vegetation can lead to soil erosion

Use 'flora' when describing the plant life in a particular region or environment.

• The flora of the Amazon rainforest is incredibly diverse
• Local flora includes both native and non-native plants