The herb spiral is an iconic permaculture element that is as functional as it is beautiful. The spiral pattern in permaculture is usually associated with the concentration or dissipation of energy. In the herb spiral, small variations in sunlight and moisture create ‘microclimates’- greatly different growing conditions within a small area. This allows many different plants with different needs to coexist in a single structure. The top of the spiral is the most exposed to sunlight, and water flows down the spiral so the bottom is the wettest. 

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Culinary herbs are not only extremely useful for cooking, they are also very good for attracting pollinators, especially native bees, into the garden. The strong scents of aromatic herbs also serve to repel pests. In typical homesteads, herb spirals are placed close to the house for easy every day access. This was mirrored in the garden, with the presentation area acting as the 'home base'.