Rosemary Care Guide

Scientific Name: Rosmarinus officinalis
Family: Mint
Type: Tender perennial shrub
Soil: Well-drained, evenly moist, alkaline
Light: Full sun to partial shade

Description
Rosemary is native to the rocky coasts of France and Spain but is now grown worldwide as a popular culinary herb. It thrives in seaside gardens and can be cultivated in full sun or partial shade in well-drained, alkaline soil.

As a tender perennial, rosemary typically grows three to six feet tall. It is hardy only to USDA zones 7-8, meaning it is often grown as an annual in colder climates. The plant is evergreen, with needle-like leaves that provide a lovely green backdrop year-round. In warmer climates, rosemary makes an attractive low hedge.

Flowers
The plant blooms in mid to late spring, with pale blue flowers (sometimes white, rose, pale lavender, or dark blue). Occasionally, it will flower again in summer. The flowers share the flavor of the leaves but are less pungent.

Container Growing & Topiary
Rosemary adapts well to container growth, making it a great option for smaller spaces. It can be easily trained into various topiary shapes, including tree, rounded, or circular wreath forms.