Rosemary Salvia rosmarinus 'Gorizia' (Ro)

Names

• Family

  Lamiaceae

• Synonyms

  Gorizia Rosemary, Rosemary Gorizia

• Common names

  Rosmarinus officinalis 'Gorizia'.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Rosemary, including the 'Gorizia' variety, is generally considered non-toxic to humans and is widely used as a culinary herb. However, consuming large quantities of rosemary may lead to potential health issues, as it contains potent essential oils and other compounds. Overconsumption can result in gastrointestinal irritation, vomiting, or allergic reactions in some individuals. Pregnant women should be cautious as high doses of rosemary may potentially affect the uterus.

• To pets

  Rosemary, including the 'Gorizia' variety, is generally considered non-toxic to pets as well. It is often used in natural pet food recipes for its health benefits. Nevertheless, some pets, particularly cats and dogs, may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest a large amount of rosemary. The essential oils in rosemary can be more potent in concentrated forms, so it's especially important for pets to avoid access to rosemary essential oil.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Evergreen

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Blue

• Height

  3-4 feet (0.91-1.22 meters)

• Spread

  2-3 feet (0.61-0.91 meters)

• Plant type

  Shrub

• Hardiness zones

  6-9

• Native area

  Mediterranean

General Benefits

• Culinary Uses: Ro is commonly known as rosemary and widely used as an aromatic herb in a variety of cuisines.
• Aromatic Qualities: Rosemary emanates a pleasant fragrance, which makes it suitable for use in potpourris and as a natural deodorizer.
• Garden Ornamental: With its attractive, needle-like foliage and pale blue flowers, it serves as an aesthetically pleasing addition to gardens.
• Pollinator Attraction: The flowers of rosemary can attract bees and butterflies, supporting the local ecosystem.
• Drought Tolerance: Rosemary is highly drought-resistant, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.
• Erosion Control: Its robust root system can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
• Companion Planting: It is believed to be a good companion plant by some gardeners, potentially repelling certain pests and benefiting neighboring plants.

Medical Properties

• Antioxidant – Contains compounds that can help protect the body from damage by free radicals.
• Antimicrobial – Exhibits properties that can inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and fungi.
• Anti-inflammatory – May reduce inflammation in the body, potentially beneficial for inflammatory conditions.
• Memory enhancement – Some studies suggest that aromatherapy with rosemary may have potential to aid memory function.
• Circulatory stimulant – Rosemary is traditionally used to stimulate blood flow.
• Muscle relaxant – Can help in relieving muscle tension or spasms.
• Digestive aid – Often used to help alleviate digestive issues like indigestion and flatulence.
• Analgesic – May provide pain relief, for example, in headaches or rheumatic pains.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Rosemary-infused oil can add a delightful scent and flavor to massage oils, providing a soothing and aromatic experience.
• When burnt like incense, rosemary can release a pleasant fragrance that freshens up your home and can create a peaceful ambiance.
• The wood from older rosemary plants can be carved into small utensils, such as skewers for grilling, imparting a subtle flavor to meats or vegetables.
• Used as a dye, rosemary can provide a natural and subtle color to fabrics and textiles, especially shades of green or yellow.
• As a companion plant, rosemary can benefit the garden by repelling certain pests, making it a natural insect deterrent.
• Rosemary can be included in homemade potpourri mixes, adding a fresh and evergreen scent to your mixtures.
• In crafting, dried rosemary sprigs can be added to wreaths or floral arrangements for texture and fragrance.
• When included in candles, rosemary not only adds an invigorating scent but can also contribute to a more even burn.
• Rosemary can be used to flavor homemade breads and pastas, introducing a Mediterranean twist to your carb-rich foods.
• Add rosemary to homemade cleaning solutions for a natural antiseptic and refreshing piney scent.

Feng Shui

Rosemary is often used in Feng Shui to purify and protect a space, as well as to invite loyalty and love. It can be placed in the front or backyard to layer the area with protective energies. Inside the home, it's best to position it in areas where you want to stimulate clarity and focus, such as a study room or home office.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

Rosemary is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Remembrance: Rosemary has historically been associated with remembering. It's often worn during weddings, funerals and war commemorations to honor and remember those who cannot be present.
• Fidelity: Couples often include rosemary in their wedding ceremonies as a symbol of their loyalty and commitment to each other.
• Friendship: Rosemary is also sometimes given as a gift to represent friendship and to show that the giver remembers the receiver fondly.
• Wisdom: In folklore, rosemary has been linked with wisdom and has been thought to improve memory, which is why it's been associated with scholars and students.
• Protection: Some cultures have believed that rosemary has the power to ward off evil, and it has been used in homes for protection.
• Love: Rosemary is sometimes used in love spells or rituals and is thought to attract love when carried or worn.
• Healing: With its medicinal properties, rosemary also symbolizes healing and has been used in various cultures for its health benefits.