Rosemary Salvia rosmarinus (Ro)
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as rosemary is a woody, perennial herb with fragrant evergreen needle-like leaves. Its leaves are dark green and leathery in texture, often with a slightly sticky feel due to the presence of aromatic oils. The underside of the leaves typically carries a lighter color, sometimes with a whitish or greyish tone. Rosemary blossoms are small and can be pale blue, pink, purple, or white, adding a delicate contrast to the dark foliage. These flowers are often arranged in short clusters. Rosemary's stems are tough and become more woody as the plant matures, often taking on a slightly twisted or gnarled appearance that adds character to its overall look. The branches tend to grow in a somewhat upward and outward pattern, which gives the plant a bushy, dense aspect. Tiny seeds, which are not commonly observed in a culinary setting, can follow the flowering period. The plant also exudes a distinctive aroma that is rich, pungent, and pine-like, contributing to its popularity in cooking and aromatherapy.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae.
Synonyms
Rosemary, Dew of the Sea, Incensier, Old Man, Polar Plant.
Common names
Rosmarinus officinalis, Rosmarinus officinalis var. albiflorus, Rosmarinus officinalis var. angustissimus, Rosmarinus officinalis var. argenteus, Rosmarinus officinalis var. aureus, Rosmarinus officinalis var. lavandulaceus, Rosmarinus officinalis var. prostratus, Rosmarinus officinalis var. pyramidalis.
ToxicityTo humans
The most common common name for Salvia rosmarinus is rosemary. Generally, rosemary is not toxic to humans when consumed in culinary quantities, and is commonly used as an herb in cooking. However, consuming large amounts of rosemary may potentially lead to gastrointestinal irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. Essential oils extracted from rosemary can be toxic when ingested in large amounts as they are highly concentrated; they might cause vomiting, spasms, and in severe cases, pulmonary edema. Pregnant women are advised to avoid excessive consumption of rosemary, as high doses may have uterine-stimulating effects.
To pets
Rosemary is generally considered non-toxic to pets; it is often used as a natural flea repellent. While it is not typically dangerous, ingestion of large amounts could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some pets, such as vomiting or diarrhea. As with humans, the essential oil form should be avoided as it can be toxic to pets in large doses.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Spread
4 feet (1.22 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Culinary Uses: Ro, commonly known as rosemary, is widely used in cooking for its aromatic flavor, especially in Mediterranean cuisine.
- Aromatic Properties: The plant has a distinctive, pleasant scent, making it popular in aromatherapy and as a natural air freshener.
- Ornamental Value: Rosemary is an attractive evergreen shrub that can add visual appeal to gardens and landscapes.
- Garden Companion Plant: Its strong scent can help repel certain pests, making it a valuable companion plant in vegetable gardens.
- Drought Tolerance: Rosemary is quite drought tolerant once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping and water-wise gardening.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant: Contains compounds that act as antioxidants, potentially reducing oxidative stress in the body.
- Anti-inflammatory: May reduce inflammation, helpful in the management of conditions with an inflammatory component.
- Antimicrobial: Exhibits antimicrobial properties, which can help in fighting certain bacterial and fungal infections.
- Cognitive enhancement: Some studies suggest it may have neuroprotective effects and could enhance cognitive function.
- Gastroprotective: It may protect the gastrointestinal lining and help relieve symptoms of indigestion or dyspepsia.
- Anxiolytic: Shows potential for anxiolytic effects, possibly aiding in reducing anxiety or stress.
- Hepatoprotective: May offer some protection to the liver from certain types of damage.
- Antispasmodic: Can help in relieving spasms in the digestive system, thus potentially aiding in the treatment of related disorders.
- Analgesic: Contains compounds that might act as pain relievers.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a natural dye: Rosemary can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics or paper, imparting a range of colors from green to brown depending on the mordant used.
- In woodworking: The wood from a rosemary plant is good for small woodworking projects, giving off a pleasing aroma when worked with.
- As a natural pest deterrent: Dried rosemary can help repel moths and other insects from closets and drawers.
- In pet care: A rinse made from rosemary can be used to improve dogs' coat health and shine, and its scent is said to be a flea repellent.
- As a freshening sachet: Bags filled with dried rosemary can be placed in vehicles or rooms to give a fresh, herbaceous scent.
- In bathing rituals: Fresh or dried rosemary can be added to bathwater for a fragrant and refreshing bathing experience.
- As a hair rinse: Rosemary-infused water can be used as a finishing rinse to add shine and possibly promote hair growth.
- As a fire starter: Dried rosemary branches can be used as kindling in starting a fire due to their high oil content which makes them burn easily and smell good.
- In cooking utensils: Rosemary wood can be crafted into cooking utensils such as spoons or skewers, providing a subtle flavor when used with food.
- As a natural cleaner: A vinegar infused with rosemary can be used as a natural, fragrant cleaning agent for surfaces in the home.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiRosemary is used in Feng Shui to purify and protect spaces, inviting in a clear, fresh energy. It can be placed in areas where you wish to foster clarity and concentration, such as a home office, or near the entryway of a home to shield against negative influences.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityRosemary is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Remembrance: Often associated with memory, Rosemary is traditionally used to honor those who have passed away, especially in ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day ceremonies, reflecting an eternal remembrance of the deceased.
- Fidelity: In the language of flowers and tradition, rosemary represents loyalty and faithfulness, making it a symbol often used in weddings to signify the commitment between partners.
- Wisdom: Rosemary is also a symbol of wisdom and enlightenment, possibly due to its historic medicinal uses that suggest sharpness of mind and improved memory.
- Protection: In folklore, rosemary has been used as a protective herb to ward off evil spirits and negativity, sometimes used to bless homes and as an element in spiritual cleansing rituals.
- Purification: The herb is associated with purification processes, typically used in older times during the bubonic plague to cleanse the air and in various cultural purifying rituals.
- Love: Also denoting love and loyalty, rosemary can symbolize affection and the deep trust between individuals, celebrating bonds that are meant to endure through time.
WaterRosemary (Ro) prefers to be watered deeply but infrequently. To ensure healthy growth, water the plant every 1 to 2 weeks, providing enough water to soak the root zone. Depending on your climate and the weather conditions, this usually translates to about 1 to 1.5 gallons per watering session for an established plant in the ground. During hot, dry spells, you may need to water more frequently, and less often during cooler, wetter periods. Always allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again to prevent root rot.
LightRosemary thrives in full sunlight and should be placed in a spot where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct light daily. It can also tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates, but its flavor and flowering may be less intense. The ideal position for rosemary is in a south-facing location where it can bask in ample sunshine.
TemperatureRosemary does best in a range of temperatures and can survive brief periods of cold down to 30 degrees Fahrenheit, but it prefers consistent temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. The plant can tolerate up to 80 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, but it is essential to provide adequate water and airflow to mitigate stress from higher temperatures.
PruningPrune rosemary to encourage bushy growth and to maintain its shape. It's best to prune in the spring, just as new growth begins, removing no more than one-third of the plant at any time. Regular harvesting of the tips for culinary use also helps to keep rosemary plants healthy and well-shaped. An additional light trim in early fall can help prepare the plant for winter but avoid heavy pruning late in the season, as new growth may be tender and susceptible to frost damage.
CleaningAs needed
SoilRosemary, commonly known as Salvia rosmarinus, thrives in well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A suitable mix can be created using two parts coarse sand, one part peat, and one part perlite or vermiculite to ensure good drainage and aeration. Regularly check soil moisture and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
RepottingRosemary, or Salvia rosmarinus, should be repotted every one to two years, ideally at the beginning of spring. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one to ensure the roots don't sit in excessive wet soil. Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Humidity & MistingRosemary, known as Salvia rosmarinus, prefers a moderate humidity level. It can tolerate dry air but benefits from occasional misting. Rosemary is adaptable to typical indoor humidity levels and does not require high humidity to thrive.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place rosemary near a sunny window; water when soil is dry.
Outdoor
Plant rosemary in full sun, well-draining soil; drought-tolerant.
Hardiness zone
7-11 USDA
Life cycleSalvia rosmarinus, commonly known as rosemary, begins its life cycle with seed germination, which usually occurs in warm soil with temperatures between 20°C to 30°C. After germination, seedlings emerge, developing a strong root system and vegetative growth including needle-like leaves, which release a characteristic aroma when crushed. The plant enters a vegetative stage where it focuses on leaf and stem growth, establishing itself with a woody stem and creating a bushy appearance. Once mature, rosemary produces small, pale blue to white flowers, typically in the spring and summer, attracting pollinators and allowing for sexual reproduction through seed production. After pollination and seed set, the plant will drop seeds to the ground, completing its reproductive cycle. Throughout the life of the plant, it can be propagated through cuttings, enabling gardeners to bypass the seed stage for faster establishment.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-summer
Salvia rosmarinus, commonly known as rosemary, is best propagated through stem cuttings. The ideal time for this is late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate, a gardener selects a healthy, non-flowering stem, about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long, and removes the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting. The cut end is then dipped in rooting hormone to encourage growth and planted in a mixture of peat and perlite or in a well-draining potting soil. The cutting should be kept moist and in a warm environment with indirect sunlight until roots develop, which usually takes a few weeks. Once established, the new rosemary plants can be transferred to their final growing location.
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