If you remember the '60s, chances are you remember the scent of patchouli. One of the definitive perfumes of the Orient, widely used in perfumes and soaps.. Leaves are excellent in potpourris and sachets.
Easy to grow,. patchouli is a bushy herb that has a sturdy, hairy stem, large, fragrant leaves and small white flowers stippled with a touch of purple. Bring into house before first frost and watch the flower clusters come out, knowing they will rob the leaf scent. To prevent patchouli from flowering, it must have 12 hours of light. Scallop edged leaves are collected, then dried for potpourris.
