It is a spiral wall of stones lined with lean soil and pebbles. Its sunny location, its structure and its components allow temperature variations to be attenuated by the accumulation of heat and prevents stagnation of moisture in the soil.
It was invented by the English to create, despite their cold and humid climate, the conditions necessary for the introduction of aromatic and nectar-bearing plants appreciated in particular by pollinating insects.
In the South Luberon, where the Mediterranean climate is favorable for the cultivation of aromatic plants, this structure is appreciated because it allows plants to be easily and simply available for infusions, salads, remedies and cooking. A very simple and convenient way to have a good variety of useful plant species. This spiral promotes great biodiversity by also offering nesting spaces on the ground and between the stones to a multitude of small animals.
It is typical in permaculture because it allows, in a minimum of space, to express a maximum of potential on a site, thanks to the proximity of different microclimates, soils, humidities, and sun exposure.The top and bottom of the spiral offer very different temperature and hydrometry conditions:
At the top, the drier soil can accommodate lavender, hyssop, savory, thyme, sage or rosemary.
Along the slope tarragon, chervil or basilica grow well.
At the base of the structure where the soil is cooler and richer, oregano, dill, basil, chives, mint or lemon balm will flourish.
Aromatic memory with the Lauris preschool at the Grand Potager
On a table installed near the aromatics spiral of the Grand Potager (Domaine de Fontenille), the Lauris preschool children played aromatic memory. In each little pot is an aromatic herb (lemon balm, thyme, rosemary, chives, sage). The children win when … Read More
The herb spiral is growing beautifully
The Grand Potager’s herb spiral benefitted from the last months’ sunny weather. Thyme, sage, rosemary, oregano, savory, chervil or even basil have developed on the low wall’s rocks. The aromatic garden is surrounded by a willow hedge which was braided … Read More
Flower hunt for Lauris school children at the Grand Potager
During a day at the Grand Potager, nursery classes from the Lauris school had the opportunity to be involved in a flower hunt. Near the bioclimatic green house and the aromatics spiral, a lot of flowers are present. The exercise … Read More
Building the herbal spiral
It is a spiral wall of stones lined with lean soil and pebbles. Its sunny location, its structure and its components reduce temperature variations, thanks to the accumulation of heat in the stones. The elevated shape also prevents stagnation of … Read More