Olive-Leaved Gromwell Glandora oleifolia
ABOUT
Glandora oleifolia, commonly known as the Rosemary leafed Glandora, is notable for its resemblance to the popular culinary herb rosemary. The plant has linear, narrow leaves that are often dark green and leathery with a glossy surface, emanating an aromatic scent when crushed or brushed. Its foliage grows in dense, needle-like clusters, providing a textured appearance similar to that of a rosemary plant. The Rosemary leafed Glandora blooms with flowers that can range in color from a deep blue to a purplish shade. These flowers are tubular and commonly arranged in small clusters, adding a splash of vibrant color against the dark green backdrop of the leaves. The blooming period usually occurs during spring or summer, depending on the climate and conditions of its environment. Overall, the plant presents a bushy and herbal appearance, with a sturdy and evergreen demeanor, making it a favored choice for ornamental purposes in gardens or as part of a native landscape. Its ability to resemble rosemary while offering a distinctly different aesthetic makes it an interesting choice for plant enthusiasts looking for variety in their plant collection or landscape designs.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Rosemary-Leaved Glandora, Rosemary Harebell
Common names
Glandora oleifolia, Lithodora oleifolia, Lithospermum oleifolium.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant Glandora oleifolia, commonly known as rosemary leafed rockrose, may be toxic to humans if ingested. While comprehensive information on its specific toxicity is limited, plants in the Boraginaceae family, to which Glandora oleifolia belongs, often contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can be harmful and cause liver damage if consumed in significant quantities. Symptoms of pyrrolizidine alkaloid poisoning may include gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, and with long-term exposure, can lead to severe liver damage or even liver failure. It is advised not to ingest any part of the plant and to seek medical attention if ingestion occurs.
To pets
The plant Glandora oleifolia, commonly known as rosemary leafed rockrose, may be toxic to pets if ingested. As with humans, specific toxicity information for this plant is not readily available, but plants in the same family often contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can be poisonous to animals. Pets that ingest parts of the plant may exhibit symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and signs of liver damage including jaundice. If suspected poisoning occurs, it is important to seek immediate veterinary care for the pet.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
1 feet 3 inches (0.38 meters)
Spread
1 feet 6 inches (0.46 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Glandora oleifolia, known as Rosemary, is commonly appreciated for its aesthetic appeal in gardens and landscapes due to its beautiful blue flowers and evergreen foliage.
- Drought Resistance: Rosemary is well-suited for xeriscaping due to its ability to thrive in dry conditions, making it an excellent choice for drought-prone areas or gardens with water restrictions.
- Culinary Use: The leaves of Rosemary are widely used as a culinary herb, imparting a unique flavor to various dishes such as meats, soups, and breads.
- Aromatic Foliage: The distinctive fragrance of Rosemary's leaves makes it popular for use in potpourris and scented garden arrangements, as well as an aromatic herb in cooking.
- Erosion Control: Its dense growth habit can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes or in areas prone to soil degradation.
- Wildlife Attraction: The flowers of Rosemary can attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing to the biodiversity and health of garden ecosystems.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, Rosemary plants require minimal care, making them suitable for gardeners of all skill levels or those seeking low-maintenance landscaping options.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Glandora oleifolia, commonly known as the Lithodora, can be used as a natural dye due to the presence of pigments in its blue flowers, providing shades of blue to textiles.
- The Lithodora is often utilized in rock gardens for its ability to grow in poor, well-drained soils and its tendency to cascade over rocks, adding visual interest and ground cover.
- Lithodora's dense growth habit can help to prevent soil erosion on slopes or banks when used as a stabilizing ground cover.
- The intense blue flowers of the Glandora oleifolia make it useful for thematic gardening where specific color schemes, such as blue and white gardens, are desired.
- Being drought-tolerant once established, Lithodora is often used in xeriscaping to reduce the need for regular watering in landscapes.
- The plant is also employed in butterfly gardens, as it provides nectar for various species of butterflies and other pollinators.
- Its ground-hugging nature makes Glandora oleifolia a suitable candidate for green roofing projects, where it can grow with minimal soil depth.
- Gardeners might use Lithodora to create a transition between the more manicured parts of a garden and the wilder, natural areas, by planting it at the edges.
- In coastal areas, Lithodora is often used in gardening as it can tolerate salty air and is resistant to salt spray.
- The plant is sometimes included in sensory gardens due to the textured leaves and vibrant colors that add a tactile and visual element to the experience.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe rosemary is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe rosemary is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Glandora oleifolia, commonly known as rosemary, often symbolizes resilience due to its ability to thrive in harsh conditions, reflecting our capacity to endure challenges and persevere.
- Remembrance: Historically, rosemary is associated with remembrance, used during events like funerals and weddings, suggesting an enduring memory of loved ones and significant life events.
- Fidelity: Rosemary represents fidelity and loyalty in relationships, making it a popular choice in bridal bouquets and as a gift between partners.
- Purification: Its aromatic properties lend rosemary to symbolize purification, often used in cleansing rituals or as a means to ward off negativity.
WaterThe Mediterranean Blue commonly requires moderate watering, aiming to maintain a balance as overwatering can lead to root rot while underwatering might stress the plant. During the active growing season in spring and summer, water the plant approximately once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. It might need around 1 gallon per watering session for a medium-sized plant, depending on soil composition and climate conditions. Reduce watering frequency in the fall and winter when the plant is not actively growing, potentially to every two weeks, adjusting based on the plant's response and environmental humidity.
LightThe Mediterranean Blue thrives best in full sun conditions. It requires at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily to flourish. The ideal spot for this plant is in a south-facing garden or a windowsill where it can receive an abundance of natural light.
TemperatureThe Mediterranean Blue is quite hardy and can handle temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit, but it grows best in temperatures ranging between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Extreme heat above 90 degrees Fahrenheit might stress the plant, so it's important to protect it during the hottest parts of the day if necessary.
PruningMediterranean Blue benefits from pruning to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove any dead or diseased stems. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts, cutting back the plant by about a third of its size. This helps to invigorate the plant and should be done annually.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Prostrate Rosemary prefers well-drained soil with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 8.0. A good soil mix for this plant would be equal parts of loam, sand, and peat to ensure drainage and aeration. Adding perlite or gritty material can further enhance drainage, important for preventing root rot.
RepottingProstrate Rosemary should be repotted every 2 to 3 years. It's best to repot in the spring, using the next pot size up with fresh well-draining soil mix to accommodate the growing root system.
Humidity & MistingThe Prostrate Rosemary is adaptable to various humidity levels but does best in dry to moderate conditions. It does not require high humidity and can thrive in the typical humidity levels found in most home environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and avoid overwatering.
Outdoor
Full sun, shelter from extreme cold, well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
7-10 USDA
Life cycleGlandora oleifolia, commonly known as the Olive-Leaved Gromwell, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in suitable conditions of soil and climate, typically with a requirement for well-draining ground and access to full or partial sunlight. After germination, the seedling emerges and develops into a young plant with characteristic silvery foliage, going through a period of vegetative growth where it establishes a root system and foliage. As it matures, Olive-Leaved Gromwell progresses to the flowering stage, where it produces blue or violet flowers typically in the spring and summer months. Following pollination, which can be assisted by insects, the plant produces fruit in the form of small nutlets that contain seeds. These seeds can be dispersed by various means, such as wind, water, or animals, leading to the colonization of new areas. Finally, Olive-Leaved Gromwell may enter a period of dormancy during adverse conditions, particularly in regions with colder climates, until favorable growth conditions resume.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Glandora oleifolia, commonly known as the Lithodora, is often propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. The best time to take these cuttings is during late summer or early fall. For this method, one would take a cutting of about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) from a healthy, non-flowering stem. It's crucial to make a clean cut just below a leaf node and remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting. The bottom end of the cutting should then be dipped in a rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth, before being planted in a pot filled with a mix of peat and perlite or sand for good drainage. The cutting should be kept in a humid environment and away from direct sunlight until it roots, which typically takes a few weeks. Once rooted, the young Lithodora can be transplanted to its final location.
