White Rosemary Salvia rosmarinus Albiflora Group (Ro)
ABOUT
The Salvia rosmarinus Albiflora Group, commonly known as rosemary, is an evergreen shrub that is well-appreciated for both its culinary and ornamental uses. This particular variety of rosemary is characterized by its needle-like leaves which are richly aromatic. These leaves traditionally have a deep green color, which adds a lushness to its overall appearance. However, what sets the Albiflora Group apart is the color of its flowers. Unlike the typical blue or lavender flowers seen on most rosemary plants, the Albiflora Group blossoms with white blooms that provide a striking contrast against the dark green foliage. The flowers are small and usually grow in clusters, which can add a delightful visual texture to the plant. The blossoms tend to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, which can add life to any garden. The plant's appearance is further characterized by its woody stems that branch out, creating a somewhat dense and bushy form. Its overall shape tends to be upright with a somewhat spreading habit, which contributes to its popularity as a hedge or border plant in gardens. Rosemary is also renowned for its resilience, being able to withstand various conditions when properly cared for. It thrives in well-drained soil and prefers sunny locations, where it can soak up the warmth and light it needs to flourish. The scent of rosemary is a mix of pine and sage-like fragrance, which is strongest when the leaves are fresh but still noticeable when they are dried. Overall, Salvia rosmarinus Albiflora Group stands out with its greenery and white flowers, providing a pleasing aesthetic and fragrant addition to any setting where it is cultivated.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae.
Synonyms
White Rosemary, Alba Rosemary.
Common names
Rosmarinus officinalis 'Albus', Rosmarinus officinalis f. albiflorus, Rosmarinus officinalis var. albiflorus.
ToxicityTo humans
Rosemary is generally considered non-toxic to humans when consumed in typical culinary quantities. However, consuming large amounts of rosemary can potentially cause side effects due to its volatile essential oils and other compounds. Though rare, large doses might lead to gastrointestinal irritation, kidney irritation, or allergic reactions. Pregnant women are advised to avoid high doses of rosemary as it can have emmenagogue (increases menstrual flow) and abortifacient effects. It is important to consult with healthcare professionals before using rosemary or any herb for medicinal purposes, especially in high doses.
To pets
Rosemary is commonly recognized as non-toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. It's often used as a natural preservative in pet foods. However, similar to humans, consuming large amounts of rosemary might lead to gastrointestinal upset in some pets. If you suspect your pet has consumed a large quantity of rosemary and is showing signs of distress, it's advisable to consult with a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
6-9
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Culinary Uses: The plant, commonly known as rosemary, is widely used in cooking to flavor meats, soups, and sauces.
- Aromatic Qualities: Rosemary has a pleasant fragrance and is often used in aromatherapy and as a natural air freshener.
- Garden Aesthetics: Its white flowers add beauty to gardens, and its evergreen foliage provides year-round interest.
- Attracts Pollinators: Rosemary flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which can help pollinate garden plants.
- Drought Tolerance: Rosemary is drought-resistant, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.
- Herbal Crafts: The leaves and flowers can be used to make herbal wreaths, sachets, and potpourris.
- Soil Erosion Control: Rosemary's dense growth can help prevent soil erosion in sloped areas of the garden.
- Companion Planting: When planted in the vegetable garden, it can help repel certain pests and attract beneficial insects.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant: Rosemary is known to contain compounds with antioxidant properties, which can help protect the body's cells from damage by free radicals.
- Anti-inflammatory: Some components in rosemary, like carnosic acid, are recognized for their anti-inflammatory effects.
- Cognitive enhancement: Rosemary has been associated with improved concentration, focus, and overall cognitive function possibly due to its active ingredient, 1,8-cineole.
- Digestive health: Traditionally, rosemary has been used to help alleviate digestive issues such as indigestion and flatulence.
- Antimicrobial: Rosemary oil has shown antimicrobial activity against a variety of microorganisms which could be beneficial in preventing infections.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Ro, commonly known as Rosemary, can be infused into natural homemade soaps for its fragrance and potential antioxidant properties.
- Its essential oil is sometimes used in aromatherapy to create an uplifting and invigorating ambiance.
- The woody stems of rosemary can be repurposed as skewers for grilling to infuse meats and vegetables with its herbaceous flavor.
- Dried rosemary needles can be added to homemade potpourris as a fragrant decor staple or sachets for closets and drawers.
- Extracts from rosemary may be used in natural wood polishes, providing a pleasant scent and gentle cleaning properties.
- The plant can act as a natural insect repellent; having them in the garden may help deter certain pests.
- Dull scissors can be sharpened by cutting through the hardy stems of the rosemary plant repeatedly.
- Some artists incorporate rosemary leaves into their paper-making process for an organic, textured look.
- The flowers can be used as a natural dye, providing a subtle color to fabrics or homemade crafts.
- Rosemary can be included in the stuffing of “sleep pillows” which might help in promoting a restful sleep environment with its soothing fragrance.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiRosemary is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityRosemary is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Remembrance: Rosemary is traditionally associated with remembrance and memory, often used in weddings and funerals to symbolize a commitment to remember loved ones and significant events.
- Loyalty: The plant is also symbolic of loyalty and fidelity, making it a common gift between friends and partners to pledge faithfulness and steadfastness in relationships.
- Purification: Historically, rosemary has been used in various cultures for purification rituals due to its aromatic properties, suggesting cleanliness and rejuvenation.
- Protection: It is believed to offer protection from negative energies and is sometimes planted or placed in homes to guard against evil spirits and misfortune.
- Healing: With its various medicinal properties, rosemary symbolizes healing and is used in herbal remedies for its health benefits.
- Love: In certain folklore, rosemary is associated with love, and it is often included in wedding customs, symbolizing the deep emotional bond between partners.
WaterRosemary, particularly the Salvia rosmarinus Albiflora Group, prefers to be watered deeply but infrequently. Allow the soil to almost dry out before watering again; this might mean watering every 1-2 weeks, depending on climate and soil conditions. When you do water, provide enough water to soak the soil to a depth of 8-10 inches, which typically means using approximately 1-2 gallons for an established plant in a garden setting. It's important not to overwater Rosemary, as it's susceptible to root rot in waterlogged soil. In hot, dry weather, monitoring the soil moisture is crucial, and additional watering may be necessary.
LightRosemary thrives best in full sunlight, where it can receive at least 6-8 hours of direct light each day. The ideal spot for this plant is in a south-facing garden bed or against a south-facing wall where it can enjoy uninterrupted sunlight. A location that replicates the Mediterranean climate it originates from will help the plant grow vigorously and produce aromatic leaves.
TemperatureRosemary prefers a temperate range of 55°F to 80°F but can withstand temperatures down to 20°F for short periods. It's important to protect the plant from frost, which could damage it. The ideal temperature for sustained growth and health is in the upper range around 70°F to 75°F, where the plant can thrive and produce essential oils.
PruningPrune Rosemary in the early spring to encourage bushy growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy. It's best to trim the plant after it has flowered, cutting back up to a third of the growth to maintain its shape and size. Pruning also helps to rejuvenate older plants, as it stimulates new growth from the base. Regular trimming of the tips can be done throughout the growing season to harvest fresh leaves for culinary use.
CleaningAs needed
SoilRosemary prefers a well-draining soil mix, consisting of two parts sandy or loamy soil, one part peat moss or compost to retain some moisture, and one part perlite or coarse sand for aeration. Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 to 7.5.
RepottingRosemary should be repotted every 1 to 2 years to replenish its soil and accommodate root growth. The best time for repotting is in the spring.
Humidity & MistingRosemary thrives in moderate to low humidity environments and does not require high humidity to grow well.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in sunny spot, minimal water, well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-drained soil, protect from extreme cold.
Hardiness zone
7-10 USDA
Life cycleRosemary (Salvia rosmarinus), specifically the Albiflora Group, generally starts its life cycle when seeds are sown in well-draining soil in early spring or when cuttings are taken from an existing plant. The seeds germinate, and seedlings emerge, which soon develop true leaves and gradually mature into young plants. Once the plant is established, it enters a vigorous growth phase during the warmer months, characterized by the elongation of stems and the development of narrow, needle-like leaves which are highly aromatic. The plant reaches maturity and begins flowering, typically producing small, white to pale-blue flowers, and attracting pollinators. After pollination, the flowers develop into small, non-fleshy fruits, which contain seeds that can be dispersed to start a new generation. Throughout its life, rosemary is an evergreen perennial, and with proper care, it can live for several years, continually growing, flowering annually, and possibly developing into a woody shrub.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Salvia rosmarinus Albiflora Group, commonly known as Rosemary, is most commonly propagated through stem cuttings. The optimal time for taking these cuttings is from late spring to early summer when the plant's growth is most active. To propagate rosemary by cuttings, one must select a healthy, non-flowering shoot and cut a length of 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 centimeters) just below a leaf node. The lower leaves are then stripped off and the base of the cutting can be dipped in a rooting hormone to encourage root growth. The prepared cutting is planted in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring at least one leaf node is below the soil surface. The pot is then placed in a warm area with indirect sunlight and kept consistently moist until the cutting has rooted, which usually takes a few weeks. Once rooted, the new rosemary plant can be transplanted to a permanent location.
