Potted aromatic plants — freshness and fragrance within reach

Fresh basil cut directly from the windowsill, fragrant rosemary within reach while cooking, fresh mint for an impromptu herbal tea: aromatic plants are not just for the garden. Grown in pots, they bring freshness, fragrance, and usefulness to daily life in the kitchen, on the balcony, or on the terrace.

Our aromatic set: the fragrant starter pack

Our Set of 4 aromatic plants is the easiest way to start a small potted herb garden. Four complementary varieties delivered in 14 cm pots, ready to be placed on a windowsill or kitchen countertop. An assortment designed to cover essential culinary needs — and a unique gift for homemade cooking enthusiasts.

Standard rosemary: the decorative herb

The standard rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) sits at the crossroads between herb and ornamental plant. Grown as a standard, it has an elegant form that suits a kitchen as well as a south-facing terrace. Heat and drought resistant, it requires very little — watering when the soil is dry and plenty of sunlight. Its intense fragrance naturally fills the space. Also check out our Mediterranean urban garden.

Bay laurel: the kitchen essential

The bay laurel (Laurus nobilis) grown as a standard is a classic of Mediterranean cooking. Its fresh or dried leaves flavor broths, stews, and marinades. In a pot, it forms a small evergreen shrub with dense, shiny foliage that thrives both in bright indoor spaces and on balconies. Hardy down to -10°C, it can stay outside year-round in most regions.

Lavender: scent and color

The lavender (Lavandula angustifolia Hidcote Blue) is the most fragrant aromatic plant. Its blue spikes scent the air and naturally repel mosquitoes in summer. Potted on the balcony or windowsill, it attracts pollinators and instantly creates a Provençal atmosphere. Its dried flowers are used as scented sachets for wardrobes. Also explore our fruit trees and herbs.

Where should you place your aromatic plants?

All Mediterranean aromatic plants (rosemary, bay laurel, lavender, thyme) have one thing in common: they love the sun. Place them in front of the brightest window, ideally facing south or southwest. In summer, they thrive on the balcony or terrace — this is even their ideal spot. Check out our article on light and humidity: finding the right balance and our guide to plants for every room.

Care for potted aromatic plants

Mediterranean aromatic plants fear excess water more than drought. Water when the soil surface is dry, ensuring good drainage at the bottom of the pot (mandatory drainage hole, clay pellets). In winter, reduce watering. Prune regularly to stimulate growth and prevent stems from becoming bare. Each pruning is also a harvest — it’s the virtuous cycle of aromatic plants. See our complete watering guide and our article on choosing the right pot.

Aromatic plants and urban vegetable gardens

Aromatic plants are the perfect gateway to potted vegetable gardening. Once you’ve mastered rosemary and basil, add a lemon tree for zest, a fig tree for fruit, and berry bushes (raspberry, blueberry, currant) for desserts. By combining aromatic plants and fruit trees, you create a truly productive urban vegetable garden on just a few square meters of balcony. Explore our urban vegetable gardens.