For a greater part of the early 20th century this cultivar was the most widely used in France, making up about 80% of the essential oil production there. Now 'Super' and 'Grosso' are more widely grown as they have more resistance to certain root diseases prevalent in French soils. This plant is quite stunning though, with a strong scent and violet blue flowers beginning in mid-summer. For particularly arid locations I would definitely grow 'Abrialli'. It is smaller than 'Grosso', growing to only 2 1/2 feet, with long flowering stems surrounding the compact gray shrub. Grow in large containers to assure good flower production.
'Abrialli' can be used for crafting, oil production, cooking, and medicine making. Because of its strong scent use it in cooking sparingly.