Medicinal & Edible Landscape Plants for Utah

(excluding southern Utah’s warmer zones)

Master Class Handout – Resilient Guild-Based Gardening

Overview

Northern, Central, East and West, Utah (primarily USDA zones 4b–7a) has cold winters, hot/dry summers, alkaline soils, and requires good drainage with supplemental irrigation once established. Southern Utah has a milder climate which will allow for many of these, but not all of the ones discussed here. This master list includes 116 cold-hardy medicinal herbs, berries, fruit trees, shrubs, and perennials.

Each entry includes:

• Benefits — One-sentence summary of primary uses.

• Cautions — Key safety notes and contraindications.

• Companions — Guild partners for nitrogen fixation, nutrient cycling (comfrey), pollination, pest control, and moisture retention/weed suppression.

Key Guild Principles

Layer plants by height: canopy → shrubs/berries → herbs/perennials → groundcovers.

Universal supporters/companions: Comfrey (dynamic accumulator/chop-and-drop mulch), Yarrow (beneficial insects/nutrient miner), Clover (nitrogen-fixer), Chives/Garlic Chives (pest repellent).

Plant in full sun (except shade-tolerant), well-drained compost-amended soil, and mulch heavily.

Disclaimer

Consult a healthcare professional before using any plant medicinally, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or with health conditions. Verify local invasiveness (e.g., contain mints, horseradish, comfrey). Source from reputable nurseries and soil-test via USU Extension.

1–17 Berries & Shrubs

1. Elderberry (Sambucus spp., incl. native blue): Berries rich in antioxidants may shorten colds/flu and support immunity. Cautions: Cook berries thoroughly (raw toxic); avoid consuming if taking immunosuppressants drugs or autoimmune conditions; consult if pregnant. Companions: Comfrey, yarrow, clover/goumi (N-fixers), bee balm, chives, strawberries.

2. Aronia (black chokeberry): Exceptionally high in antioxidants; supports heart health, reduces inflammation, regulates blood sugar. Cautions: Generally safe; very astringent. Companions: Comfrey, yarrow, clover, nasturtium, lavender.

3. Serviceberry / Juneberry (Amelanchier spp., incl. Utah native): Antioxidant-rich berries with fiber/minerals; mild anti-inflammatory. Cautions: Generally safe. Companions: Goumi/Siberian pea shrub (N-fixers), comfrey, yarrow, chives, strawberries.

4. Haskap / Honeyberry (Lonicera caerulea): High vitamin C/antioxidants; supports immunity/cardiovascular health. Cautions: Safe; protect early blooms. Companions: Comfrey, clover, bee balm, nasturtium, thyme.

5. Currants (Ribes spp., incl. golden/red): Rich in vitamin C/antioxidants; supports immune/digestion. Cautions: Safe; check blister rust. Companions: Comfrey, yarrow, garlic chives, white clover, strawberries.

6. Gooseberries (Ribes spp.): High vitamin C/fiber; supports digestion/immunity. Cautions: Safe; some thorny. Companions: Comfrey, chives, clover, nasturtium, borage.

7. Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana): Astringent for respiratory issues (bark/processed berries). Cautions: Process pits carefully (cyanogenic). Companions: Yarrow, comfrey, lupine, bee balm.

8. Buffaloberry (Shepherdia argentea): High vitamin C; traditional antioxidant food. Cautions: Safe when processed. Companions: Clover/legumes, sagebrush, yarrow.

9. Goumi / Silverberry (Elaeagnus spp.): Anti-inflammatory potential; nitrogen-fixer. Cautions: Can spread. Companions: Elderberry, apple, comfrey; yarrow, lavender.

10. Rose (Rosa woodsii/rugosa): Hips high in vitamin C; supports immunity/skin. Cautions: Strain seeds. Companions: Lavender, thyme, chamomile, comfrey, clover.

11. Golden Currant (Ribes aureum): Digestion/immunity support. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Comfrey, chives, clover.

12. Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica): Tonic for allergies, joints, minerals. Cautions: use gloves for fresh harvesting; cook/dry; caution with blood thinners/pregnancy. Companions: Comfrey, yarrow, mint (contained), dandelion, clover.

13. Goji berry (Lycium barbarum, hardy strains): Antioxidant-rich; supports energy, immunity, eyes, blood sugar/pressure. Cautions: May interact with blood thinners/diabetes meds; avoid pregnancy. Companions: Comfrey, yarrow, clover, chives, lavender/thyme, strawberries/groundcovers.

14. Jostaberry (Ribes x nidigrolaria): High vitamin C for digestion/immunity. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Comfrey, yarrow, clover, garlic chives.

15. Blackberries (Rubus spp., hardy cultivars like Illini Hardy, Apache, Chester): Antioxidant-rich with anti-inflammatory/digestive support. Cautions: Thorny types irritate skin; some need winter protection. Companions: Comfrey, yarrow, clover, chives, strawberries/mint (contained).

16. Raspberries (Rubus idaeus, hardy like Canby, Polana, Joan J): High vitamin C/fiber/antioxidants; supports immunity, heart, digestion. Cautions: Canes need support/protection. Companions: Comfrey, yarrow, clover, chives, borage/strawberries.

17. Hardy Grapes (Vitis spp., like Valiant, Somerset Seedless, Frontenac): Resveratrol/antioxidants support heart/anti-inflammatory effects; leaves astringent. Cautions: Good air circulation for mildew; consult if on blood thinners. Companions: Comfrey/clover (under-vine), yarrow, chives, lavender/thyme, bee balm/nasturtium.
    

18–28 Fruit Trees & Larger Shrubs

18. Apple (Malus domestica, hardy varieties): Fiber/antioxidants; aids digestion/cholesterol. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Comfrey, yarrow, chives, clover/lupine, nasturtium, borage, strawberries, daffodils.

19. Pear (Pyrus spp., cold-hardy): Gut health via fiber/antioxidants. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Comfrey, chamomile, nasturtium, clover, yarrow, borage.

20. Tart Cherry (Prunus cerasus): Anti-inflammatory for joints, sleep, gout. Cautions: May interact with blood thinners. Companions: Comfrey, chives, clover, yarrow, lavender, strawberries.

21. Plum (Prunus spp., hardy/hybrid): Fiber/antioxidants for digestion; mild laxative. Cautions: Pits toxic. Companions: Garlic chives, comfrey, nasturtium, clover, bee balm.

22. Hawthorn (Crataegus spp., native): Supports heart health/circulation. Cautions: Interacts with heart meds. Companions: Yarrow, comfrey, clover, bee balm.

23. Nanking Cherry (Prunus tomentosa): Antioxidant benefits like cherries. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Comfrey, clover, yarrow, chives.

24. Apricot (Prunus armeniaca, hardy): Vitamin A/antioxidants for skin/eyes; mild digestive. Cautions: Pits toxic. Companions: Comfrey, chives, clover, nasturtium, yarrow.

25. American Plum hybrids: Fiber/antioxidants for digestion. Cautions: Pits toxic. Companions: Garlic chives, comfrey, clover.

26. Quince (Cydonia oblonga, hardy): High pectin for digestion; traditional respiratory. Cautions: Eat cooked. Companions: Comfrey, yarrow, clover, lavender.

27. Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba, hardy): Antioxidant-rich; supports energy/sleep/immunity. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Clover/goumi, comfrey, yarrow.

28. Peach (Prunus persica, hardy varieties like Reliance, Contender, Harrow Beauty): Fruit is rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber for immune support, skin health, and digestion; leaves traditionally used as a mild tea for digestive relief, calming, and respiratory comfort. Cautions: Fruit pits contain cyanogenic compounds (do not consume); leaves should be used in moderation—avoid large amounts or long-term use; consult a doctor if pregnant or on medications; some people may have allergic reactions to stone fruits. Companions: Comfrey (mulch/accumulator), yarrow, chives/garlic chives (pest repellent), clover (N-fixer), nasturtium, borage, strawberries; good near garlic/onions for pest control.

29–116 Herbs, Perennials & High-Nutrition Garden Staples

29. Comfrey (Symphytum officinale): Allantoin promotes wound, bone, and tissue healing (primarily topical). Cautions: Toxic internally (liver risk); external only. Companions: Nearly universal—under trees/berries with clover, yarrow, chives.

30. Echinacea (purple coneflower): Mild immune stimulation; may shorten colds. Cautions: Asteraceae allergy/autoimmune. Companions: Yarrow, bee balm, lavender, calendula, clover.

31. Lavender (hardy cultivars): Calming; reduces anxiety/stress/sleep issues. Cautions: Safe in moderation. Companions: Thyme, sage, yarrow, chamomile, clover.

32. Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis): Gentle sedative/antiviral for anxiety/sleep/cold sores. Cautions: Check thyroid meds. Companions: Mint (contained), catnip, chamomile, yarrow, clover.

33. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium, native): Anti-inflammatory; wound healing, fever, digestion. Cautions: Avoid pregnancy; Asteraceae; not with blood thinners. Companions: Universal—with comfrey, clover, lavender.

34. Garden sage (Salvia officinalis): Antioxidants; cognition, menopausal, cholesterol. Cautions: Avoid high doses in pregnancy. Companions: Lavender, thyme, oregano, yarrow, clover.

35. Calendula (Calendula officinalis): Topical skin healing/anti-inflammatory. Cautions: Safe topically; avoid internal if pregnant/Asteraceae. Companions: Echinacea, yarrow, chamomile, nasturtium, clover.

36. Oregano (Origanum vulgare): Antimicrobial; digestion/minor infections. Cautions: Avoid medicinal doses in pregnancy. Companions: Thyme, sage, lavender, yarrow, chives.

37. Thyme (Thymus spp.): Respiratory/antimicrobial; coughs/digestion. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Lavender, sage, oregano, strawberries, clover.

38. Chives / Garlic Chives: Mild antimicrobial; heart support via sulfur. Cautions: Safe in food amounts. Companions: Trees, roses, strawberries, comfrey, clover.

39. Mint (Mentha spp., contain in pots): Soothes digestion/nausea/headaches. Cautions: Invasive; may worsen reflux. Companions: Lemon balm, catnip, chamomile; near nettle/comfrey.

40. Catnip (Nepeta cataria): Mild sedative; traditional cold relief. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Lemon balm, chamomile, valerian, yarrow.

41. Chamomile: Calming for anxiety/digestion/sleep. Cautions: Asteraceae allergy. Companions: Lavender, yarrow, lemon balm, mint, clover.

42. Feverfew: Migraine prevention. Cautions: Avoid pregnancy. Companions: Yarrow, chamomile, lavender.

43. St. John's Wort: Mild depression support. Cautions: Major drug interactions/photosensitivity. Companions: Yarrow, bee balm, clover.

44. Valerian: Insomnia/anxiety relief. Cautions: Vivid dreams. Companions: Lemon balm, catnip, skullcap, chamomile.

45. Motherwort: Heart rhythm/menopausal anxiety. Cautions: Avoid pregnancy. Companions: Lemon balm, skullcap, yarrow.

46. Skullcap: Anxiety/nervous tension. Cautions: Verify species. Companions: Valerian, lemon balm, bee balm.

47. Bee balm (Monarda fistulosa): Respiratory/digestive antimicrobial. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Echinacea, yarrow, clover.

48. Anise hyssop: Coughs/digestion; mild sedative. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Bee balm, lavender, yarrow.

49. Mullein: Respiratory soothing/coughs. Cautions: Strain hairs. Companions: Yarrow, plantain, comfrey.

50. Plantain: Wound healing/digestive soothing. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Comfrey, yarrow, dandelion, clover.

51. Dandelion: Liver/detox/diuretic. Cautions: Asteraceae; avoid with diuretics. Companions: Comfrey, plantain, clover, yarrow.

52. Burdock: Blood purifier/skin support. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Comfrey, dandelion, clover.

53. Marshmallow: Demulcent for throat/gut. Cautions: May slow med absorption. Companions: Plantain, mullein, comfrey.

54. Lovage: Digestion/respiratory. Cautions: Avoid pregnancy/kidney issues. Companions: Comfrey, yarrow, clover.

55. Winter savory: Antimicrobial/digestive. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Thyme, oregano, lavender.

56. Tarragon: Appetite/digestion. Cautions: Safe culinarily. Companions: Sage, thyme, clover.

57. Horehound: Cough/respiratory. Cautions: Bitter; avoid pregnancy. Companions: Mullein, thyme, yarrow.

58. Prickly pear cactus (hardy): Blood sugar/anti-inflammatory. Cautions: Handle spines. Companions: Yarrow, sagebrush, clover.

59. Sagebrush (native): Aromatic antimicrobial/respiratory. Cautions: Internal cautiously. Companions: Yarrow, lavender, juniper.

60. Utah juniper (native): Urinary/digestive from berries. Cautions: Avoid pregnancy/kidney/long-term. Companions: Sagebrush, yarrow, clover.

61. Hyssop: Respiratory support. Cautions: Avoid pregnancy/epilepsy. Companions: Lavender, sage, thyme.

62. Mountain mint: Digestion/respiration. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Bee balm, anise hyssop, yarrow.

63. Sweet cicely: Digestive with anise flavor. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Lovage, chives, clover.

64. Salad burnet: Mild astringent for digestion. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Chamomile, yarrow.

65. Sorrel: Vitamin C; mild diuretic/digestive. Cautions: High oxalates with kidney issues. Companions: Comfrey, clover.

66. Roman chamomile: Calming groundcover. Cautions: Asteraceae. Companions: Lavender, thyme.

67. Wood betony: Nervous system tonic. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Skullcap, lemon balm.

68. Elecampane: Respiratory tonic. Cautions: Asteraceae. Companions: Mullein, yarrow.

69. Astragalus (hardy): Immune tonic. Cautions: Avoid autoimmune. Companions: Echinacea, clover.

70. Vitex / Chaste tree (protected): Hormonal balance. Cautions: Consult doctor. Companions: Lavender, yarrow, clover.

71. Russian sage: Mild calming/digestive (aromatic). Cautions: Safe. Companions: Lavender, sage, yarrow.

72. Globe mallow (native): Soothing for respiratory/skin. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Yarrow, bee balm, clover.

73. Pearly everlasting: Respiratory/skin support. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Yarrow, mullein.

74. Biscuitroot / Yampa (native): Digestion/energy from root. Cautions: Identify carefully. Companions: Native clover/lupine, yarrow.

75. Purslane: Omega-3 rich; anti-inflammatory. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Comfrey, dandelion, clover.

76. Lamb's quarters: Nutrient-dense minerals. Cautions: Oxalates—moderate. Companions: Comfrey, dandelion, clover.

77. Common mallow: Soothing demulcent. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Comfrey, yarrow, clover.

78. Antelope bitterbrush (native): Traditional tonic for colds/skin. Cautions: Internal cautiously. Companions: Sagebrush, yarrow, clover.

79. Cliffrose: Traditional aromatic. Cautions: Limited data. Companions: Sagebrush, yarrow.

80. Piñon pine (adaptable): Nutritious nuts; resin respiratory. Cautions: Safe nuts. Companions: Juniper, yarrow, clover.

81. Quaking aspen (native): Bark for pain/fever (salicin-like). Cautions: Avoid aspirin allergy. Companions: Comfrey, yarrow, clover.

82. Rocky Mountain maple: Sap/mineral uses. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Comfrey, clover.

83. Apache plume: Traditional astringent. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Yarrow, clover.

84. Fennel (hardy): Digestion support. Cautions: Avoid large amounts in pregnancy. Companions: Yarrow.

85. Bronze fennel: Similar digestive benefits. Cautions: Same as fennel. Companions: Yarrow.

86. French tarragon: Appetite/digestion. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Sage, thyme, clover.

87. Variegated marjoram: Milder oregano-like. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Thyme, oregano, lavender.

88. Garlic chives: Mild antimicrobial/heart support. Cautions: Safe in food. Companions: Trees, roses, strawberries, comfrey, clover.

89. Garlic (hardneck varieties like Music, German Extra Hardy): Strong antimicrobial, immune support, cardiovascular benefits via allicin; highly nutritious. Cautions: May increase bleeding risk with blood thinners; raw can upset the stomach. Companions: Roses, fruit trees, strawberries, comfrey, yarrow, clover.

90. Onions (hardy like Utah Sweet Spanish, bunching): High in quercetin/antioxidants; supports heart, blood sugar, immunity, digestion. Cautions: Raw may cause gas; caution with blood thinners. Companions: Carrots, beets, strawberries, comfrey, yarrow, clover.

91. Asparagus (perennial): Nutrient-dense (folate, vitamin K, antioxidants); supports detox, bones, digestion. Cautions: Moderate with gout/kidney issues. Companions: Comfrey, yarrow, clover, strawberries.

92. Rhubarb (perennial): High in vitamin K/fiber/antioxidants; mild laxative/digestive. Cautions: Leaves toxic (oxalates); use stalks only; avoid with kidney/gout issues. Companions: Comfrey, yarrow, clover; near strawberries.

93. Horseradish (perennial): Potent antimicrobial/sinus/respiratory support; aids digestion/anti-inflammatory. Cautions: Pungent—irritates eyes/skin; avoid large amounts with thyroid/kidney issues or pregnancy. Companions: Comfrey, yarrow, clover; contain to prevent spreading.

94. Kale (hardy varieties): Superfood with vitamins A/C/K, minerals, antioxidants; supports immunity, detox, eyes/bones. Cautions: High oxalates/vitamin K—moderate with kidney issues or blood thinners. Companions: Comfrey, yarrow, clover, chives/garlic chives.

95. Cayenne peppers (Capsicum annuum, grown as annual): Capsaicin provides circulatory support, metabolism boost, topical pain relief, and traditional aid for digestion, colds, sore throats; rich in vitamin A/antioxidants. Cautions: Can cause digestive upset/heartburn; topical may irritate skin; consult if on blood pressure/blood thinners or pregnant/with ulcers. Companions: Basil, onions/garlic chives, carrots, yarrow/calendula, clover/comfrey, nasturtium/marigolds.

96. Basil (Ocimum basilicum, incl. holy/Tulsi types): Supports digestion, mild anti-inflammatory/antimicrobial; traditional for stress relief and respiratory comfort; rich in antioxidants. Cautions: Generally safe culinarily; avoid large medicinal doses in pregnancy; possible allergic reactions. Companions: Tomatoes, peppers (incl. cayenne), oregano, yarrow, marigolds.

97. Dill (Anethum graveolens): Aids digestion/gas relief, mild antimicrobial; traditional for colic/respiratory support/calming tea. Cautions: Generally safe; large amounts may cause skin sensitivity in sun; avoid excessive use in pregnancy. Companions: Cabbage family, cucumbers, onions, yarrow, borage; attracts beneficial insects.

98. Cilantro / Coriander (Coriandrum sativum): Supports digestion/detoxification; mild antimicrobial/anti-inflammatory; high in vitamin K/antioxidants. Cautions: Generally safe; high vitamin K—monitor with blood thinners. Companions: Spinach, tomatoes, carrots, yarrow, calendula; cool-season—succession plant.

99. Parsley (Petroselinum crispum): Nutrient-dense (vitamins A/C/K, iron, folate); supports kidney/detox, freshens breath, mild diuretic/anti-inflammatory. Cautions: Generally safe; high vitamin K—monitor with blood thinners; avoid large amounts in pregnancy. Companions: Tomatoes, asparagus, roses, chives, yarrow, clover.

100. Chervil (Anthriscus cerefolium): Mild digestive aid with calming properties; traditional for respiratory comfort/gentle tonic; rich in vitamins/antioxidants. Cautions: Generally safe; best fresh; avoid if allergic to Apiaceae. Companions: Radishes, lettuce, parsley, mint; cool-season; partial shade in heat.

101. Borage (Borago officinalis): Pollinator booster; traditional mild anti-inflammatory. Cautions: Generally safe; avoid long-term high doses. Companions: Strawberries, comfrey, yarrow.

102. Purslane: Omega-3 rich; anti-inflammatory. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Comfrey, dandelion, clover.

103. Stinging Nettle (strong perennial emphasis): Nutrient tonic for allergies/joints/minerals. Cautions: As in #12. Companions: Comfrey, yarrow, clover.

104. Ponderosa pine (native): Needles for vitamin C tea; resin uses. Cautions: Moderate internal use. Companions: Juniper, yarrow, understory clover.

105. Hazelnut / Filbert (Corylus spp., hardy): Nut nutrition; mild tonic. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Comfrey, clover, yarrow.

106. Black walnut (Juglans nigra, hardy): Hulls traditional antiparasitic. Cautions: Juglone affects plants; use hulls only. Companions: Careful placement; comfrey at distance.

107. Beach plum (Prunus maritima, hardy strains): Antioxidant berries. Cautions: Safe when processed. Companions: Comfrey, chives, clover.

108. Hobbleberry / Highbush cranberry (Viburnum spp.): Traditional analgesic from leaves/berries. Cautions: Identify correctly. Companions: Yarrow, comfrey.

109. Red osier dogwood (Cornus sericea): Bark traditional for pain. Cautions: Like aspirin—avoid if allergic. Companions: Comfrey, yarrow, clover.

110. Water birch (Betula occidentalis): Sap/bark traditional. Cautions: Safe in moderation. Companions: Comfrey, clover.

111. Desert willow (Chilopsis linearis, marginal): Traditional respiratory support. Cautions: Check hardiness. Companions: Yarrow, lavender.

112. Black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia, hardy): Flowers have traditional uses. Cautions: Flowers only; other parts toxic. Companions: Comfrey, clover.

113. Blue camas (Camassia spp., native): Traditional bulb for energy. Cautions: Identify carefully. Companions: Clover, yarrow.

114. Sego lily (Calochortus nuttallii, native): Traditional nutritious bulb. Cautions: Rare; sustainable only. Companions: Clover, yarrow.

115. Prince's plume (Stanleya pinnata): Traditional; selenium accumulator. Cautions: Selenium toxicity risk if overused. Companions: Yarrow, clover.

116. Big-tooth maple (Acer grandidentatum): Sap/mineral uses. Cautions: Safe. Companions: Comfrey, clover.

Implementation Tips

• Start warm-season annuals (basil, cayenne) indoors; direct-sow cool-season ones (cilantro, dill, chervil, parsley) for best results.

• Integrate annuals into guilds: cayenne + basil + onions/garlic chives + yarrow; dill near brassicas/berries for pest control.

• Peach trees benefit from comfrey mulch and garlic/onion companions for pest protection.

• Example guild: Peach or apple tree + comfrey + yarrow + clover + garlic/chives + kale + basil/cayenne edges.

• Succession planting for cilantro, dill, and parsley extends harvest.

Resources:

Local Nurseries

Horseshoe Mountain Home Center- Mt. Pleasant

Skyview Landscape Nursery - Centerfield (Gunnison)

IFA Country Store - Ephraim

Walmart - Ephraim

Olson’s Nursery - Payson

Laura Kay’s Garden Center - Salem

Online Resources:

Strictly Medicinals Seeds - seeds and plants https://strictlymedicinalseeds.com/

Richters - Coming from Canada: very good quality plants and seeds https://www.richters.com/