What is Rosemary?
Rosemary is an evergreen aromatic shrub. Its accepted name is Salvia rosmarinus; Rosmarinus officinalis is a familiar earlier name.
Botany and life cycle
1. Identity and native range Salvia rosmarinus is a Mediterranean member of Lamiaceae placed in the sage genus. Rosmarinus officinalis is its familiar former name. 2. How to recognize it Narrow leaves have darker upper and paler lower surfaces. Woody branches bear blue-purple flowers; leaf compounds provide the scent. 3. Flowering and reproduction Insects visit flowers. Cuttings are a predictable way to maintain traits of named cultivars, although seeds can also form.
Ecology, cultivation and uses
4. Habitat and ecology It grows in sunny rocky freely draining places. Flowers can support bees and the shrub offers cover. Flooded roots are vulnerable. 5. Cultivation and care Supply sun, drainage and moderate water, with more regular watering while establishing. Prune green growth and protect from severe frost. 6. Uses and cautions Leaves flavor food. Culinary amounts differ from concentrated essential oil; high-dose oil should not be presumed safe as a treatment.