Part 7/9:
As the pot simmers, it becomes evident that Roman gardens transcended mere floral displays; they were spaces designed for profit and pleasure. Wealthy Romans utilized peristyle gardens for a multitude of purposes—walking paths, sculptures, and outdoor dining frequently adorned these lush and cultivated areas.
Key figures in Roman horticulture offer insight into what herbs were fashionable to cultivate. Columella and Pliny the Elder suggest a plethora of herbs, such as capers, rosemary, and fennel. Ambitions rise as possibilities for a modern herb garden burgeon; however, rue stands out as the first successful addition.