Rosmarinus officinalis
Common: Rosemary
Family: Lamiaceae (Labiatae)
Origin: Native to Mediterranean region
Sunset Zone: 4-24
Light: Part to full and reflected sun
Soil: Endures poor soil, but good drainage is a must
Water: Little or no water once established. Excess water results in rank growth, woodiness.
Taller varieties useful as hedges or in dry borders. Greatest use is for ground or bank covers. Useful in erosion control.
Transitional, desert or wild gardens. Fall, winter and early spring color.
Rugged, picturesque, spreading shrub of irregular habit. Grows quickly to 2-6 ft. in height.
Glossy dark green leaves; narrow, aromatic; densely covers plant to ground. Leaves widely used as seasoning.
Small clusters of light lavender blue flowers in winter and spring, 1/4 - 1/2 in. Occasionally repeats bloom in fall. Attracts birds, bees. Rabbits will not eat it.
Sometimes attacked by fungus if drainage is poor. Control growth by frequent tip-pinching when plants are small. Prune older plants lightly; cut to side branch or shear. Older plants may become woody.