Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) is a fragrant, evergreen herb native to the Mediterranean region, known for its needle-like leaves and woody stems. Its strong, piney aroma and slightly bitter flavor make it a staple in many cuisines, particularly in Italian, Greek, and French cooking. Rosemary’s hardy nature and ornamental appeal also make it a popular choice for gardens, where it serves as both a culinary herb and a decorative shrub. Beyond the kitchen, rosemary is valued for its medicinal properties and has been used for centuries to improve memory, relieve muscle pain, and boost the immune system.

Soil Requirements

Rosemary thrives in well-drained, sandy, or loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. Poorly draining soil can lead to root rot, so it’s essential to plant rosemary in soil that allows excess water to drain easily. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, consider planting rosemary in a raised bed or container with a well-draining potting mix to ensure optimal growth.

Sun Requirements

As a sun-loving herb, rosemary requires full sunlight to grow vigorously and maintain its aromatic oils. It needs at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. In regions with intense summer heat, it may benefit from some afternoon shade, but generally, more sunlight enhances the flavor and scent of rosemary’s foliage. If grown indoors, place rosemary near a sunny window or use a grow light to provide adequate light.

Watering Requirements

Rosemary is relatively drought-tolerant and prefers infrequent but deep watering once it’s established. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, but avoid overwatering, as rosemary is sensitive to soggy soil. In humid or rainy climates, rosemary may need less frequent watering. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to avoid root rot, especially in cooler weather.

Best Plant Hardiness Zones

Rosemary is hardy in USDA Zones 8 to 10, where it can be grown as a perennial and remains evergreen year-round. In cooler climates (Zones 7 and below), rosemary should be treated as an annual or brought indoors during the Winter to protect it from frost. Some cold-hardy varieties may survive in Zone 7 with Winter protection, such as mulching around the base or covering the plant during cold spells.

Popular Rosemary Varieties

Rosemary is a versatile herb with many varieties that differ in growth habits, leaf size, and cold tolerance. From trailing varieties that spill over pots to upright shrubs perfect for hedges, each type of rosemary has its unique appeal in the garden and the kitchen. Here’s a look at five popular rosemary varieties and how to use each one in your cooking and landscaping.

Tuscan Blue Rosemary

Tuscan Blue is a robust, upright rosemary variety with dark green leaves and striking blue flowers that appear in the spring. Known for its rich flavor and large, flavorful leaves, this variety is a favorite among chefs and home gardeners alike. Tuscan Blue grows up to 6-feet tall, making it an excellent choice for hedges and ornamental borders.

Tuscan Blue’s bold flavor makes it perfect for hearty dishes, such as roasted meats, stews, and root vegetables. Its long, sturdy stems can also be used as skewers for grilling, adding a hint of rosemary flavor to skewered meats and vegetables. The attractive blue flowers can be used as garnishes, adding color to salads or infused oils.

Arp Rosemary

Arp rosemary is known for its cold-hardiness and can survive in temperatures as low as 10°F, making it suitable for gardeners in cooler climates (Zones 6 and up). It has a gray-green foliage and produces light blue flowers in the Spring. Arp has a slightly milder flavor compared to other varieties, with a refreshing aroma.

Arp rosemary is versatile in the kitchen, ideal for seasoning chicken, fish, and lighter vegetable dishes. Its milder flavor complements delicate ingredients without overpowering them. Arp rosemary can also be used in teas and herbal remedies, offering a soothing scent that’s perfect for aromatherapy.

Prostrate Rosemary

Prostrate rosemary, also known as creeping or trailing rosemary, is a low-growing variety that spreads along the ground rather than growing upright. It has delicate, bright green foliage and produces small blue flowers. Prostrate rosemary is commonly used as a ground cover or in hanging baskets, where it can spill gracefully over the edges.

Prostrate rosemary’s flavor is similar to other varieties, making it great for culinary use. Its trailing habit makes it easy to harvest, and it’s ideal for garnishing dishes, making herb butter, or adding to baked goods like focaccia. Its decorative appeal also makes it a favorite for container gardens, where it can cascade over the edges beautifully.

Blue Boy Rosemary

Blue Boy is a compact, dwarf variety of rosemary that reaches only about 1 foot in height. Its small, dense growth habit makes it perfect for small spaces, rock gardens, or container gardening. Blue Boy has a subtle flavor and soft, tiny leaves, making it a charming addition to any herb garden.

Blue Boy rosemary’s mild flavor is ideal for delicate dishes, such as salads, light pasta dishes, and herb blends. Its small size also makes it easy to keep indoors as a potted plant, where it can be conveniently harvested for fresh garnishes. Blue Boy’s compact nature allows it to fit into smaller containers, making it a great choice for windowsill gardens.

Barbecue Rosemary

Barbecue rosemary is a tall, sturdy variety known for its straight, woody stems, which are perfect for use as skewers. This rosemary variety has a bold, savory flavor and is highly aromatic, with a robust growth habit that makes it well-suited for outdoor gardens and container planting.

As its name suggests, Barbecue rosemary is ideal for grilling. Its strong stems make excellent skewers for meats and vegetables, infusing them with a smoky rosemary flavor as they cook. Barbecue rosemary’s flavor holds up well to high heat, making it perfect for roasted meats, potatoes, and grilled dishes. It’s also a popular choice for marinades and sauces, where its bold flavor can be fully appreciated. ❖