Perennial, herbaceous, ornamental culinary herb valued for its unique flavour and medicinal properties. Grows as hardy evergreen sub-shrub, 50-100cm (19.6-39.3in) tall with tiny leaves rich in essential oil. Contains warm, peppery, slightly bitter flavour and intense aroma, going well with wide variety of dishes, including meat, eggs, salads, drinks, herbal tea and many others. Forms small light blue flowers that are borne in April or May, in loose clusters that spring from the leaf axils. The foliage is white ad wooly on the under side and dark and shiny above. Can last for years if given winter protection. Rich in soothing, anti-inflammatory, digestive properties. Suitable for growing outisde, potted inside on windowsills, balconies etc. Rosemary is a great companion plant to sage, cabbage, beans, carrots and thyme. It repels the bean beetle, deters cabbage flies, and repels many bean parasites. Do not plant near basil. Its fragrant flowers attracts bees, butterflies and birds.
Growing: Challenging in tropical climates.
Growing season: spring, indoors, 6-8 weeks prior the last frost; direct seeding after the last frost when soil is workable.
Soil: dry, light, well drained, alkaline soil with a pH 6-7.5.
Sowing depth: sprinkle the seeds on the top of the soil and lightly cover.
Spacing: 18-24in (45-61cm) apart.
Light: full sun.
Watering: moderate.
Fertilizing: optional.
Germinates within 15-25 days.
USDA hardines zone 7a to 10b.
