Shrub
Rosemary
Salvia rosmarinus
An aromatic evergreen Mediterranean shrub for full sun and sharply drained soil. Once established it tolerates drought well, but cold, wet winters can damage it outside mild climates, so winter protection or container culture may be needed.
- Size
- 1–2 m high · 1–2 m wideVaries by cultivar
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Low
- Winter
- Needs protection
- Seasonal form
- Evergreen
- Maintenance
- Moderate
Before planting
- Choose the sunniest, best-drained position available; winter wet combined with cold is especially damaging.
- In colder regions plan a sheltered microclimate or container culture so the plant can be protected during severe frost.
- Check the selected form before planting, because upright and prostrate cultivars differ greatly in mature shape and size.
Why choose it
- Evergreen aromatic foliage is useful year-round for cooking, fragrance and Mediterranean-style planting.
- Small flowers provide a long pollinator resource while established plants cope well with dry, sunny conditions.
Care
- Water regularly only while establishing, then water more sparingly and never leave the roots sitting in wet soil.
- Trim lightly after flowering or during harvest to keep the shrub compact, avoiding severe cuts into old bare wood.
- Wear gloves if your skin is sensitive, because handling and pruning can cause contact irritation in some people.
Good to know
- The accepted botanical name is Salvia rosmarinus; Rosmarinus officinalis remains a widely used historical synonym.