Rosmarinus officinalis

 

  Rosemary

  Family: Labiatae

  Origin: Native to the Mediterranean

Hardiness: Hardy to 20 degrees
Growth: Medium growth rate to 2-6 feet depending on variety
Form: Upright or spreading
Leaves: Very narrow aromatic leaves in whorls
Flowers: Tiny violet to blue flowers in spring; even a white variety
Exposure: Full sun best, but will take light shade
Water: Little water needed, but tolerates regular watering
Soil: Well drained soil is a must
Fertilizer: Fertilizer causes too much weak growth
Prune: Head back to shape; do not cut into very old wood
Problems: Spittle bugs minor cause no damage; root rot in wet soils

Very versatile plant with many varieties. Use 'Prostrata' as a ground cover and to cascade over walls. 'Tuscan Blue' has dark blue flowers and upright growth to 6 feet. Flowers attract bees. Foliage is used in cooking.

© 1997 by Jim Clatfelter.         Go to Garden California Home Page

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