Rosemary Salvia rosmarinus 'Green Ginger' (Ro)
ABOUT
Salvia rosmarinus 'Green Ginger' is a variety of rosemary that is distinguished by its unique aromatic qualities that hint at ginger, complementing the traditional rosemary scent. The plant features evergreen foliage with needle-like leaves that are rich green in color and have a slightly leathery texture. The leaves can be used to add flavor in cooking. Throughout the plant’s blooming season, it may produce small, pale blue to lavender-colored flowers, which add a subtle decorative touch and may attract pollinators such as bees to the garden. The overall form of the plant tends to be bushy and dense, contributing to its use in both culinary and ornamental settings. Rosemary is commonly used in landscaping as an aromatic herb, and 'Green Ginger' is a cultivar that would offer a twist on the typical rosemary fragrance with its ginger undertones.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Green Ginger Rosemary, Green Ginger Salvia
Common names
Rosmarinus officinalis 'Green Ginger', Salvia officinalis 'Green Ginger'.
ToxicityTo humans
Salvia rosmarinus 'Green Ginger', commonly known as rosemary, is generally not considered toxic to humans. In culinary amounts, rosemary is safe for most people and is commonly used as a herb in cooking. However, consuming large quantities of the plant could potentially lead to side effects due to its volatile oils and other compounds. These effects might include gastrointestinal irritation, vomiting, and skin irritation. Excessive consumption of rosemary should be avoided, particularly by pregnant women, as it may have uterine and menstrual flow stimulant effects. Rosemary oil should never be ingested because it's much more concentrated than the culinary herb and can be toxic.
To pets
Rosemary is generally considered non-toxic to pets. It is often used in dog foods for its antioxidant properties, and it's not known to cause any significant toxic effects when consumed in small amounts. However, in high doses, the essential oils in rosemary could cause gastrointestinal upset or central nervous system depression in pets. Pets with preexisting health conditions or those that ingest large amounts of rosemary might experience complications, and in such cases, veterinary assistance should be sought. But for the most part, rosemary does not pose a high risk of poisoning to pets when consumed in moderation.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Culinary Uses: Rosemary is widely used as a flavorful herb in various cuisines, particularly in Mediterranean dishes.
- Aromatic Properties: The plant emits a fresh, soothing scent that serves as a natural air freshener.
- Gardening and Landscaping: Rosemary is often used for ornamental purposes due to its attractive evergreen foliage and flowers.
- Attracting Pollinators: The flowers of rosemary can attract bees and other pollinators, supporting biodiversity in the garden.
- Drought Resistance: As a Mediterranean native, rosemary is well-adapted to dry conditions and can thrive with minimal watering once established.
- Soil Erosion Control: The plant's extensive root system can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
- Companion Planting: Rosemary is believed to be a good companion plant that helps repel certain garden pests from vegetables and other herbs.
- Low Maintenance: This hardy plant requires minimal care, making it a good choice for novice gardeners or those with limited time.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant properties: Rosemary contains compounds that may help protect the body's cells from damage by free radicals.
- Antimicrobial effects: Some studies suggest rosemary has antimicrobial properties that could be useful in fighting certain bacteria, fungi, and viruses.
- Anti-inflammatory action: The plant's constituents might help reduce inflammation in the body, which could be beneficial in conditions with an inflammatory component.
- Cognitive enhancement: Research indicates that rosemary may have a positive effect on memory and concentration, possibly due to its aromatic compounds.
- Digestive health: Traditionally, rosemary has been used to help alleviate digestive issues such as indigestion and gas.
- Circulatory stimulation: Rosemary is sometimes applied topically in traditional medicine to stimulate blood circulation.
- Analgesic potential: There is some evidence to suggest that rosemary might have pain-relieving properties.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Rosemary 'Green Ginger' can be used as a natural wood polish when infused with vinegar or oil to help restore and protect wooden furniture.
- The strong aroma of Rosemary 'Green Ginger' makes it an excellent natural insect repellent for wardrobes and drawers when dried and placed in sachets.
- This plant can be used to create a natural dye for textiles and crafts, producing shades of blue, green, or yellow depending on the mordant used.
- Rosemary 'Green Ginger' sprigs can be added to the barbecue or smoker to infuse meats with a unique flavor during cooking.
- The plant can be crafted into wreaths or garlands for aromatic and decorative home decor, especially during festive seasons.
- Fresh rosemary 'Green Ginger' stems can be used as skewers for grilling, giving kebabs an extra hint of flavor.
- When burned as incense, rosemary 'Green Ginger' can enhance the ambience of a room with its invigorating fragrance.
- The essential oil from Rosemary 'Green Ginger' can be added to homemade soaps or candles for a natural fragrance and potential aromatherapeutic benefits.
- Used in pet bedding, dried rosemary 'Green Ginger' can help repel fleas and ticks naturally.
- As a natural cleaner, rosemary 'Green Ginger’ infused vinegar can be used to clean surfaces, leaving a streak-free shine and a clean scent.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiRosemary is used in Feng Shui for purification and to improve air quality, creating a more positive energy flow. In Feng Shui, it is often recommended to place rosemary by the front door or in a sunny spot in the garden to attract good energy and to ward off negative influences.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityRosemary is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Remembrance: Traditionally, rosemary, the common name for Salvia rosmarinus, symbolizes remembrance and is often used in ceremonies such as weddings and funerals to signify the remembrance of loved ones.
- Loyalty: Rosemary is also associated with fidelity and loyalty in relationships, thus it is sometimes given to signify love and enduring commitment.
- Wisdom: In folklore, rosemary represents wisdom and is thought to improve memory, making it a common emblem for scholarly achievement.
- Protection: Historically, rosemary was believed to ward off evil spirits and protect homes, which is why it was commonly planted near doorways and carried in pouches for personal protection.
- Healing: Because of its use in traditional medicine to alleviate various ailments, rosemary can signify healing and rejuvenation.
WaterRosemary 'Green Ginger' should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. In general, watering once a week with up to 1 gallon of water per plant is appropriate, adjusting for climate and season. Indoor rosemary may require less water, closer to 8-12 ounces per week, depending on pot size and indoor conditions. Always ensure that the plant has well-draining soil and that excess water can flow freely away from the roots to avoid waterlogging.
LightRosemary 'Green Ginger' thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. It performs best when placed in a south-facing location where it can receive plenty of light. However, in extremely hot climates, some afternoon shade can prevent scorching.
TemperatureRosemary 'Green Ginger' prefers consistent temperatures ranging between 55°F and 80°F. It can handle temperatures as low as 30°F, but frost can damage the plant. The ideal growing conditions include cool nights and warm days, not exceeding 80°F.
PruningPrune Rosemary 'Green Ginger' to maintain its shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove any woody, nonproductive stems. Pruning in the spring encourages new growth and allows the plant to recover and fill out over the summer. Typically, pruning no more than one-third of the plant at a time is recommended.
CleaningAs needed
SoilRosemary 'Green Ginger' thrives in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. A mix of two parts potting soil to one part coarse sand or perlite is ideal for providing good drainage and aeration. Additionally, incorporating organic matter like peat moss can help achieve the slightly acidic to neutral pH perfect for this herb.
RepottingRosemary 'Green Ginger' should be repotted every 1 to 2 years to ensure it has enough space to grow and to refresh the soil. It's best to repot in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Humidity & MistingRosemary 'Green Ginger' prefers a dry environment with low to moderate humidity levels. It is well-suited to the typical indoor environment and does not require any special humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light and avoid overwatering.
Outdoor
Sunny spot, well-drained soil, protect from harsh frost.
Hardiness zone
7-11 USDA
Life cycleSalvia rosmarinus 'Green Ginger', commonly known as Rosemary 'Green Ginger', begins its life cycle with seed germination, which requires warm temperatures and can take several weeks. The seedlings then develop into young plants with tender stems and leaves, requiring plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil to thrive. As the plant matures, it enters a vegetative stage where it produces dense, needle-like leaves that are highly aromatic, and it can start to be harvested lightly for its leaves. Over time, the rosemary 'Green Ginger' becomes woody and bush-like, reaching its full size and producing small, pale blue to white flowers typically in spring or summer, which attract pollinators like bees. After flowering, the plant sets seeds, completing its reproductive cycle, although rosemary is more commonly propagated through cuttings than seeds. With proper care, this perennial herb can live for several years, going through multiple cycles of growth, blooming, and dormancy, especially in regions with mild winters.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular way to propagate Salvia rosmarinus 'Green Ginger', commonly known as Rosemary, is through stem cuttings. This method is preferred because it creates a genetic clone of the parent plant, and it can be done most successfully during the late spring through early summer when the plant's growth is most vigorous. A gardener would take a cutting of about 2 to 4 inches (approximately 5 to 10 cm) from a healthy, non-flowering stem, removing the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting. Dipping the cut end into a rooting hormone can encourage root development, although it's not essential. The stem is then planted in a soil mix that drains well, kept moist but not waterlogged, and placed in a warm area with bright, indirect light. Within a few weeks, the cutting should develop roots and can eventually be transplanted into the garden or a larger pot.
