42. La collection des romarins

Since 2019, the Domain of Chaumont-sur-Loire has been adding plant collections to the Prés du Goualoup park, including star jasmine archways, antique roses, clematis-lined pathways, fields of peonies, dahlias, asters and Japanese irises. In 2024, a new rosemary collection is being showcased. These Mediterranean shrubs with their erect and compact growth produce highly aromatic evergreen foliage. The name comes from the Latin “ros maris” meaning “dew of the sea”, perhaps due to the fact that this shrub flourishes on the coast, where humidity levels are high.

These plants are rich in essential oils and are used in cosmetics for their antiseptic, antioxidant and purifying qualities. Rosemary was for a long time used in perfume making and was one of the ingredients in “the Queen of Hungary’s Water”, a veritable fountain of youth used to treat rheumatism. Its use dates back to Antiquity. The Greeks would use it during certain festivities. Rosemary would become known for its medicinal qualities in the Middle Ages. It was used as a tonic and digestive aid, among other uses.