Every year from January to March, mimosa shrubs bloom across the South of France. It’s vibrant golden flower serves as a wonderful reminder that spring is in the air.
Mimosa is grown primarily in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region and exported all over the world. This beautiful flowering shrub came to the France from Australia in the 19th century. According to legend, English aristocrats flocked to the region for the warmth of the sun with mimosa blooms packed in their bags. The temperate climate and rich soil proved to be perfect for its proliferation across countless hillsides and hectares. Today, it’s used in countless products ranging from perfume to honey and is symbolic of the region. There’s even a Route de Mimosa that extends from Bormes-Les-Mimosas to Grasse. And, in early February, Mandelieu-La Napoule – the self-proclaimed mimosa capital – is home to La Fête du Mimosa, a 10-day celebration of this regional favorite.
While I’ve never driven the Route de Mimosa nor attended the annual festival, I do purchase a spray of fragrant woodsy blooms for my home. It’s the perfect post-holiday reminder that spring is in the air.
Isabelle says
Love and missed your posts.
They are pleasure to read
A little like having a café at the Flore ❤️
Jeannine says
Thank you Isabelle. Yes, it’s been a while since my last post. I’ve been so busy with work and my apartment renovation that I haven’t had much time for anything else. Miss you!