- Mature height
- 1m to 2m
- Mature width
- 1m to 1.5m
Rosmarinus officinalis, now reclassified as Salvia rosmarinus, is Rosemary, an upright evergreen shrub with narrow needle-like grey-green leaves and a dense woody frame. The foliage is strongly aromatic year round, and small pale blue flowers appear over winter and into spring. Prostrate forms trail rather than stand upright.
It wants full sun and sharp drainage, and it is happier dry than wet. Established plants handle drought, salt wind and exposed positions with ease, which suits warm temperate and Mediterranean climates across southern Australia. Growth is 30 to 50 centimetres a year and maintenance amounts to an annual trim.
Rosemary is used as low hedging, in borders, as groundcover in its prostrate forms, and in herb and kitchen gardens where it is cut for cooking. It grows happily in a 40 to 50 centimetre pot by a back door. Ornamental structure and a usable crop from the same plant.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Rosemary
What is Rosemary?
Rosmarinus officinalis, now classified botanically as Salvia rosmarinus, is an upright evergreen shrub with narrow needle-like grey-green leaves and a strong resinous scent. Small pale blue flowers appear over winter and spring. The habit is woody and dense, and the aromatic foliage is held all year round.
How big does Rosemary grow?
Upright forms generally reach 1 to 1.5 metres tall and a similar width, while prostrate selections stay under 40 centimetres and spread sideways instead. Growth is around 30 to 50 centimetres a year. Regular light harvesting or trimming holds a plant well below its potential size without any harm.
Does Rosemary need sun or shade?
Full sun, without qualification. Six or more hours of direct sun gives dense growth, strong aroma and good oil content in the leaves. In shade the plant stretches, thins out and becomes prone to fungal problems. Open air movement around the plant matters almost as much as the sun does.
Is Rosemary drought tolerant?
Very. Once established it survives long dry periods on rainfall alone in most temperate districts, and it is far more likely to be killed by wet soil than by dry. Free drainage is essential. Water new plants through their first summer, then only during extended dry spells.
Can Rosemary grow in pots?
Yes, and a pot suits it well because you control the drainage. Use a pot 40 to 50 centimetres wide with a gritty free-draining mix, put it in the sunniest spot you have, and let the mix dry between waterings. A single plant on a courtyard or balcony is easy to keep.
Can I cook with this Rosemary?
Yes. Rosmarinus officinalis is the culinary rosemary, and sprigs can be cut fresh year round for roasts, breads, oils and marinades. Harvest from the soft green growth rather than the old woody stems, and take a little from several places around the bush so it keeps its shape.
How do I care for Rosemary?
Plant in full sun in free-draining soil, on a raised mound if your ground is heavy. Water sparingly once established and avoid rich fertiliser, which produces soft growth and weak flavour. Trim lightly after flowering to keep the bush dense, cutting into green growth only, since bare old wood does not reshoot.
