The Pioneer Unit is a non-profit, service, and educational organization that is part of the South Central District of The Herb Society of America. It was formed in 1992 in Round Top, Texas for the charitable and educational purposes of furthering the knowledge and use of herbs and of contributing the results to the records of horticulture and science. Madalene Hill was instrumental in making this happen.

In this area of Texas we are blessed with the kind of growing conditions that enable us to raise a wide variety of wonderful plants. We are also blessed to have many members who have great knowledge and experience and who are willing to educate any and all who are interested in cultivating and utilizing herbs.

The Unit gathers at 9:30 am on the second Thursday of every month (except August) at locations throughout our area. Every meeting features interesting and informative programs with various expert speakers on a wide range of topics that deal with herbs and gardening. Each meeting is followed by a luncheon with a variety of thematic dishes usually prepared by our members.

The major annual event of the Pioneer Unit is The Herbal Forum Plant and Gift Sale at Round Top, Texas. It is held on the third weekend in March in conjunction with The Round Top Festival Institute. This is a must-do event featuring top speakers, tastings, recipes, and literature. It is a great opportunity to learn about herbs and their uses, gardening, and much more.