The Herb Garden

Bordering the French Garden, the Herb Garden forms a fragrant and lively garden room within the Reverie.

Most of the planting enjoys full sun and well-drained sandy soil, conditions in which many Mediterranean herbs thrive. Lavender, thyme, oregano and sage create the structural backbone of the garden, filling the air with scent while attracting bees and other pollinators throughout the summer. Nectar-rich flowers such as catmint, globe thistle and verbena extend the flowering season and add movement and colour between the herbs.

Towards the slightly more sheltered edges, plants that prefer a little more shade and moisture find their place. Lungwort, lobelia and dead-nettle create a softer layer beneath the taller herbs, while spring bulbs such as snake’s head fritillary and summer snowflake bring early seasonal interest.

Fruit trees growing near the herb garden add spring blossom and light shade, while their flowers provide an early food source for pollinators.

Together these plantings create a garden where culinary herbs, biodiversity and seasonal flowering naturally come together.