rosemary
Updated: February 20, 2023

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

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
Older rosemary plants will have knobby growths called adventitious roots along the stem. This is normal and not a problem. Photo: Caryopteris spp. Ria Malloy, UME

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.

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