Rosmarinus (Rosemary)
Beloved across gardens and kitchens alike, Salvia rosmarinus (formerly Rosmarinus officinalis) is a fragrant, drought-tolerant evergreen shrub native to the sun-drenched hills of the Mediterranean. A proud member of the mint family (Lamiaceae), rosemary is closely related to culinary favorites like basil, mint, sage, oregano, and thyme.
Famed for its aromatic, needle-like leaves and delicate blue to white flowers, rosemary thrives in coastal gardens, rock gardens, and drought-tolerant landscapes. Hardy in USDA zones 8–11, it revels in heat and poor, sandy soils. Cold-hardy varieties like ‘Arp‘ and ‘Madeline Hill‘ even push into zones 6–7 with protection.
Beyond beauty, rosemary is a powerhouse: it enhances roasted meats, aids digestion, improves memory, and lifts spirits through its invigorating scent. Its strong aroma also deters pests like cabbage loopers and carrot flies, making it an ideal companion for crops like carrots and peppers. Discover the key benefits of growing Rosemary in your garden.
Whether spilling gracefully from pots as creeping rosemary or standing tall as a fragrant hedge, rosemary fills gardens with life and charm. Plus, it’s non-toxic to pets and beloved by bees, bumblebees, and hummingbirds. An ancient herb with modern appeal, rosemary is a timeless classic every gardener should grow.
