Rosmarinus officinalis
rosemary [2]
R. officinalis is a bushy shrub with a dense, leafy habit, to 2m x 2m but variable in size. Linear dark green leaves 1.5-5cm long have recurved margins and pale, felty undersides. Flowers usually pale violet-blue and white. Flowering starts in spring but is often repeated at differing times of year. Both habit and flower colour can be variable, from prostrate to upright, from deep blue to paler and white tones, pink or purple. Many selections and cultivars are available
Synonyms
Rosmarinus officinalis
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
1.5–2.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Blue Purple White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Blue Purple White | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Salvia can be annuals, biennials, herbaceous or evergreen perennials, or shrubs. They have paired, simple or pinnately lobed, often aromatic leaves and 2-lipped flowers in whorls, forming simple or branched spikes or racemes
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Mediterranean
How to grow
Cultivation
Easy to grow aromatic, evergreen shrub. Prefers poor, well-drained soil and may be used as a formal or informal low hedge which should be trimmed after flowering
Propagation
Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Patio and container plants
- Rock garden
- City and courtyard gardens
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Flower borders and beds
- Wall side borders
Pruning
Pests
Generally pest free
Diseases
Get involved
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