Do you prefer to grow your own herbs for your magical workings? With the current news surrounding mystery seeds, and the sudden popularity of back yard gardens, it is important to know what plants are better bought and not grown for your needs.

Elder Tree and Berries

The Elder-tree is reputed to exhale so narcotic a scent when in flower, that it is unwholesome for animals to rest under its shade; and it is considered unadvisable to plant one of these trees where its exhalations can be wafted into a sleeping apartment. On account of this pungent smell, country people often strike with Elder-boughs the leaves of fruit-trees and vegetables, in order that by being impregnated with the scent of the Elder-berries, they may prove noisome to troublesome insects.

Foxgloves

These are beautiful flowers that grow tall and  make a beautiful backdrop to your witches garden, however these should be planted with utmost care. While they are often used for their healing properties especially for the heart they are toxic. Caring for the foxglove plant should include keeping children and pets away, as all parts can be toxic when consumed. Even the seeds that fall to the ground.

Lotus

The Nitraria tridentata, which is by some believed to be the Lotos-tree of the ancients, has semi-intoxicating qualities mostly from its berries, which produce a state of lethargy.

Mandrake

The harvest of Mandrake is surrounded by myths. It must happen at full moon in a ritual circle. While being pulled out the plant would shriek, which is fatal to the person who hears it. Mostly, Mandrake was extracted for use in wine or love potions. While it will not shriek, it is possible to chew a piece of root. The effects are similar to those of datura. Mandrake is a tranquillizer and intoxicates. Physically you feel good, but you will lose your sanity.

Wormwood

Artemisia absinthium or wormwood is the main ingredient of absinth and was used as life elixir as far back as the Middle Ages, to treat wounds and to expel worms.