Not only is Rosemary known for its culinary purposes, but it may have some medicinal uses as well. The smell of the aromatic leaves may actually increase memory recall, which gives credence for its folk medicinal use of improving memory. Some cultures brought sprigs of Rosemary to funerals as a symbol of remembering the dead, although some would argue that the sprigs were used to counteract any foul smells that may be present at ancient funerals.
As a perennial it is hard to compete with Rosemary for diversity of environments and locations it will thrive in. This is fantastic news for everyone who wants to enjoy its easy to grow habit, and its wonderful aromas and flavors it brings to the culinary world. Virtually as drought tolerant as they come. Tiny soft sky blue blooms that attracts bees, birds, and butterflies cover Rosemary during the spring, and then again in the fall, once things start to cool off a bit. Fragrant leaves flavor meats, poultry and potatoes
| Plant Types: | Herb, Interior Plant, Perennial, Shrub |
| Light: | Full Sun |
| Height: | 3 feet to 5 feet |
| Width: | 4 feet to 5 feet |
| Zones: | 8a to 11b |
| Bloom Color: | Blue |
| Bloom Seasons: | Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Mid fall, Late fall |
| Leaf Color: | Green, Silvery |
| Special Features: | Deer resistant, Edible, Fragrant foliage, Not North American native |
| Shape: | Irregular or sprawling, Mounded, Rounded, Spreading or horizontal |
| Fertilizer: | Miracle-Gro® Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food |
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Sow seeds in spring. Provide protection from the cold while the plants are young.
The foliage of rosemary is great as an herb. The best time to pick the leaves or sprigs of the young stems is in the morning before it gets too hot when the plant is just beginning to bloom. This is when the oils found in the leaves that give them their distinct aroma and flavor are most abundant.
There are many varieties of Rosemary that have various growth needs. Some will grow up and some along the ground, but all need full sun. Generally speaking, upright varieties are more cold hardy, whereas the prostrate growing Rosemary's can suffer frost damage at 20F/-7C. Branches root wherever they touch the ground.
Small flowers appear in winter and last through spring. They come in several colors, but are primarily different shades of blue. Flowers are edible.
Requires little irrigation, but well-draining soil is a must. Heavy soils can be amended with organic matter.
Prune after the plants are done flowering.
Prone to root rots. To prevent, allow the soil to dry out between irrigations.