Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Description
Rosemary is a hardy evergreen shrub in areas where winter temperatures stay above 5°F. In the Northeast, however, this perennial should be moved indoors or to a protected location and kept as a container plant during winter. The narrow leaves have a leather-like feel and a spicy, resinous fragrance.
![rosemary blooms](/agnr.umd.edu/sites/extension.umd.edu/files/styles/optimized/public/2021-02/hgic_herb_rosemary_blooms_600.jpg?itok=bFiCfTM3)
Culture
Rosemary grows best in well-drained soil with a pH between 6.5 – 7.0. Prefers full sun. It can be propagated by cuttings or grown from seed (can be slow to germinate). Pinch seedlings and young plants to direct growth. Grows to a height of between 36-72”.
![adventitious roots on bluemist shrub](/agnr.umd.edu/sites/extension.umd.edu/files/styles/optimized/public/2021-04/hgic_herbs_adventitious_roots_Caryopteris_600.jpg?itok=ucPaDy8R)
Bumps or Swelling on Vegetable Stems
Harvesting
Cut fresh leaves as needed. Can be dried.
Use
Rosemary is a popular flavoring for meats, vegetables, and dressings or as a garnish on roasts. Oil from leaves is used in medicine.