But there’s no significant space or energy requirement for a miniature topiary Christmas tree. It can sit on the dining table, your bedroom or anywhere else an 18-inch tree can perch.

A topiary is a plant pruned and trimmed into a special shape—geometric, animal or other fanciful design.

Large topiary plants date to Roman times. Topiary underwent a renaissance in the late 1500s in Europe, decorating the gardens of the European elite.

Miniature topiaries were created for indoor enjoyment.

Each holiday season we purchase a rosemary topiary tree or two. We look for one 12 inches or shorter for the dining table and a bit taller as a coffee table centerpiece.

We love the heady aroma of the fresh herb. When we pass by we run our hands over the tree and inhale the rosemary perfume on our palms.

A rosemary topiary tree is more than a holiday/winter home decoration: It’s a supply of fresh rosemary for cooking and garnishing throughout the year. You can keep it indoors or plant it in your garden when the weather turns warm.

You can eat this rosemary topiary Christmas tree. Photo courtesy ProFlowers.com.