Growing Rosemary

Botanical Name:

Rosmarinus officinalis

Common names:

Rosemary

Description:

Rosemary is an important culinary herb and should be included in every herb garden. Besides Rosemary's many culinary and medicinal properties and its many household uses, its trusses of blue flowers nestled among pine needle-like leaves are an attractive ornamental shrub for perennial borders and beds. Rosemary grows tall and erect or bushy and compact depending on the variety.

Life Cycle:

tender perennial

Exposure:

full sun or partial shade

Cultivation:

Start plants with cuttings taken from non-flowering branches in the early summer or layer and relocate seedlings from established plants. To sow from seed, select a well-protected site with loamy, well-drained soil and full sun exposure. Keep plants compact in size with regular trimming. Rosemary is a long-lived perennial in warmer climates. Northern gardeners can grow it in containers that can be easily brought indoors in the winter.

Propagation:

cuttings

Parts Used:

leaves

Harvesting and Storage:

Rosemary leaves can be harvested anytime. They should only be used fresh, so harvest only what you can use at any one time.

Medicinal Uses:

digestive problems; muscle relaxant; diuretic; menstrual cramps; nervousness; memory stimulant

Culinary Uses

bouquet garnish; roasted meats; potatoes; vinegars

Other Uses:

skin care; hair care; soap; posies, wreaths and crafts; potpourri