November Plant of the Month: Elegant Herb Topiaries of Rosemary and Lavender

Herb topiary plants make excellent November “Plants of the Month” — especially Rosemary and Lavender — because they combine fragrance, form, and function at a time when most outdoor gardens are winding down. Also, shop our collection in store or online. 

• As colder weather limits time outdoors, the aromatic foliage of herbs like Rosemary and Lavender brings freshness and sensory appeal inside the home.
• Lightly brushing the leaves releases essential oils that purify indoor air and add a soothing scent to kitchens and living spaces.

• Both Rosemary and Lavender retain their foliage year-round, offering lush greenery even in winter.
• Their naturally compact, woody growth makes them easy to trim into festive shapes — cones, spheres, or spirals — that resemble miniature holiday trees or decorative centerpieces.

• These herbs thrive in bright indoor light during the colder months, especially in south- or west-facing windows.
• They provide both beauty and culinary use — a practical way to keep fresh herbs handy through the holiday cooking season.

• Dense, needle-like leaves and upright stems make it perfect for pyramidal or ball topiary forms.
• Fragrant and flavorful — ideal for roasting meats, potatoes, and bread in seasonal cooking.
• Prefers cool indoor temperatures (50–60°F at night) and bright light.

• Offers silvery-green foliage and a gentle, calming scent.
• Adds a decorative and soothing presence to indoor spaces during shorter, darker days.
• Needs good air circulation and moderate watering to prevent root rot indoors.

These herbs share the same woody or semi-woody growth habit that allows shaping and trimming:

1. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
   • Compact and finely textured; excellent for small tabletop topiaries or low mounds.
   • Evergreen foliage releases a strong culinary aroma when touched.
2. Sage (Salvia officinalis)
   • Broad leaves and soft texture; can be trained into rounded or half-standard forms.
   • Decorative gray-green or variegated foliage adds visual contrast.
3. Oregano (Origanum vulgare)
   • Dense, spreading growth habit works well for small spheres or cascading topiaries.
   • Fragrant and easy to trim; tolerates indoor conditions.
4. Marjoram (Origanum majorana)
   • Similar to oregano but with a sweeter fragrance; responds well to pruning.
   • Can be shaped into small domes or “mini trees.”
5. Lemon Verbena (Aloysia citrodora)
   • Slightly tender but highly aromatic; ideal for larger topiary projects indoors.
   • Pruning enhances branching and releases a bright lemon scent.

In November, herb topiaries bridge the outdoor and indoor seasons — offering gardeners a touch of green artistry, fragrant ambiance, and edible utility. Rosemary and Lavender lead the way as timeless choices that blend horticultural skill with home décor charm, reminding us that the garden spirit can thrive year-round.