Herbs are so useful to us in our everyday lives that it's easy to forget that they're beautiful and ornamental plants in their own right. There are lots of varieties of common herbs that have unusually colored or variegated leaves that make a great addition to a window-box herb garden.

Variegated and small-leaved basils and golden oregano look great combined with purple sage and the coleus-like leaves of Japanese shiso or Perila. The large silvery leaves of Cuban oregano contrast the small leaves of silver or lemon thyme and the white and green foliage of a variegated lemon balm. And perhaps, the Cuban oregano or some lesser-known decorative herbs may be an inspiration to learn a bit about Cuban cuisine. Most herbs like to be planted in full sun, prefer a well-draining potting mix (an inch or two of gravel added to the base of the planter will ensure perfect drainage), and be regularly watered. Fresh herbs should add a bit of flavor to your cooking and some flair to your latest container planting.