Rosemary Salvia rosmarinus 'Sissinghurst Blue' (Ro)
ABOUT
Salvia rosmarinus 'Sissinghurst Blue', commonly known as rosemary, is a perennial herb that is highly valued for its aromatic foliage and attractive flowers. This particular variety is noted for its striking blue blooms, which make it stand out in the garden. The plant typically produces slender, needle-like leaves that are rich in aromatic oils. These leaves are often dark green in color and have a leathery texture. The flowers of 'Sissinghurst Blue' are usually a vivid shade of blue, which can appear in small clusters along the branches. They are particularly favored by gardeners looking to add a splash of color to herb gardens or borders. Overall, the appearance of 'Sissinghurst Blue' rosemary is one of a sturdy and robust herbaceous plant, renowned for its distinctive scent and the attractive contrast between its dark green foliage and blue flowers.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae.
Synonyms
Rosemary, Sissinghurst Blue Rosemary, Garden Rosemary, Culinary Rosemary, Common Rosemary, Blue Rosemary.
Common names
Rosmarinus officinalis, Rosmarinus prostratus.
ToxicityTo humans
Rosemary, including the cultivar Salvia rosmarinus 'Sissinghurst Blue', is generally considered non-toxic to humans and is commonly used as a culinary herb. However, consuming large quantities of rosemary can potentially lead to negative effects due to its volatile oils and other compounds. Very high intake could result in stomach and intestinal irritation, kidney irritation, and even potential toxicity, though this is quite rare. Some individuals might also have allergic reactions to rosemary.
To pets
Rosemary is generally regarded as safe for pets as well. However, as with humans, consuming it in very large amounts could cause stomach upset or other issues due to the essential oils and compounds. It is not typically associated with severe toxicity in pets. It's always a good idea, though, to monitor any pet after ingestion of new plants or foods to watch for any adverse reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
5 feet (1.52 meters)
Spread
4 feet (1.22 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Culinary Use: Rosemary is a popular herb in cooking, known for adding flavor to dishes such as meats, soups, and breads.
- Aromatherapy: The fragrance of rosemary is said to improve mood and reduce stress when used in aromatherapy applications.
- Landscaping: Due to its attractive foliage and blue flowers, rosemary is often used in landscaping to enhance garden aesthetics.
- Drought Tolerance: Rosemary is a drought-tolerant plant, making it a good choice for xeriscaping or in areas with water restrictions.
- Pollinator Attraction: The flowers of rosemary attract bees and other pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.
- Low Maintenance: Rosemary is known for being low maintenance, requiring minimal care once established in an appropriate environment.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant: Contains compounds that may help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
- Anti-inflammatory: May reduce inflammation and help mitigate conditions associated with it.
- Cognitive enhancement: Some components might improve concentration and focus.
- Antimicrobial: Exhibits properties that could inhibit the growth of certain bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
- Digestive aid: Often used to alleviate various digestive issues such as bloating or indigestion.
- Analgesic: May provide pain relief for certain conditions.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a hair rinse: Rosemary infused water can be used as a final rinse to add shine and possibly stimulate hair growth.
- In pet care products: Rosemary extract is often added to natural pet shampoos for its scent and potential flea-repelling properties.
- As a natural wood preservative: The oil can be used to treat wooden furniture and prevent degradation.
- In fabric dyes: Historically, rosemary has been used to produce a range of natural dyes for fabrics.
- In homemade candles: Rosemary can be infused into homemade candles for aroma.
- In craft projects: Dried rosemary sprigs can be used in potpourri or as part of decorative wreaths and floral arrangements.
- As a food preservative: Rosemary extract is a natural antioxidant and can be added to foods to extend their shelf life.
- For journaling and bookmaking: Dried leaves can be included in the binding of handmade books for their pleasant scent and texture.
- In natural insect repellent: Rosemary oil can be included in recipes for homemade bug repellents.
- As a biodegradable glitter: Crushed dried rosemary can serve as an eco-friendly glitter alternative in crafts and art projects.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Rosemary is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Rosemary is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Remembrance: Historically, rosemary, including Salvia rosmarinus 'Sissinghurst Blue', has been used to symbolize remembrance and has been associated with memory. It was often used in weddings and funerals with this symbolism in mind.
- Fidelity: In the language of flowers, rosemary also represents fidelity between partners, making it a common plant in wedding ceremonies and bouquets meant to signify a pledge of love and loyalty.
- Purification: Rosemary has been commonly associated with cleansing as it was used in the Middle Ages to create disinfectants and also to ward off evil spirits and diseases.
- Friendship: Offering rosemary is seen as a gesture of goodwill, symbolizing friendship and ensuring the recipient that they will not be forgotten.
- Healing: With its use in traditional herbal medicine, rosemary is often connected to healing and the betterment of one’s health.
- Longevity: Owing to its hardiness and evergreen nature, rosemary represents immortality and longevity.
WaterFor the Rosemary 'Sissinghurst Blue', water the plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to slightly dry out between waterings. Typically, watering once every 1 to 2 weeks should suffice, but this can vary depending on climate and soil conditions. An average of 1 inch of water—approximately 0.5 gallons for a small to medium-sized plant—is usually adequate. Adjust the frequency during very hot or dry periods, potentially increasing to once a week, and scale back during cooler, wetter seasons to prevent overwatering and root rot.
LightRosemary 'Sissinghurst Blue' thrives in full sun exposure with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. This plant is best placed in a location that receives ample morning light and some protection from the harsh afternoon sun, although it can tolerate full sun all day. Proper light conditions ensure vigorous growth and better essential oil production in the herb's leaves.
TemperatureRosemary 'Sissinghurst Blue' prefers warm conditions and does well in temperatures between 60°F and 80°F. It can survive seasonal lows down to about 30°F but should be protected or brought indoors if temperatures threaten to dip lower. Rosemary does not tolerate frost well and must be shielded from extreme cold to prevent damage.
PruningPrune Rosemary 'Sissinghurst Blue' to maintain shape, encourage bushy growth, and prevent woody stems. Pruning is best done in the spring or early summer, cutting back up to one-third of the plant's length. Regular trimming of the tips can be performed throughout the growing season to keep the plant compact and to harvest the leaves for culinary use.
CleaningAs needed
SoilRosemary 'Sissinghurst Blue' thrives in well-draining, sandy soil with a pH between 6.0 to 7.5. A mix of two parts coarse sand to one part peat or compost is ideal for optimal growth.
RepottingRosemary 'Sissinghurst Blue' should be repotted every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. Choose a time during early spring for repotting.
Humidity & MistingRosemary 'Sissinghurst Blue' prefers a dry and well-ventilated environment. It does well in average indoor humidity levels but does not tolerate high humidity well.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and avoid overwatering.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun and ensure soil is well-drained.
Hardiness zone
7-10 USDA
Life cycleRo, more commonly known as 'Sissinghurst Blue' Rosemary, begins its life as a seed, which under the right conditions of warmth and moisture germinates, sprouting roots and a shoot. As a seedling, the plant prioritizes root establishment while the shoot grows upwards and its leaves begin to photosynthesize. Transitioning into a juvenile stage, the rosemary's woody stems and aromatic leaves develop, and it becomes more resilient to environmental factors. Upon reaching maturity, which can take a couple of years, 'Sissinghurst Blue' Rosemary produces small, blue to violet flowers which are pollinated by bees and other insects, leading to seed formation and dispersal. This perennial herb repeats its flowering annually, contributing to the ecosystem by providing nectar and continuing its life cycle for several years. As with many perennials, old age leads to reduced vigor and productivity until it eventually dies, completing the life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Salvia rosmarinus 'Sissinghurst Blue', formerly known as Rosemary 'Sissinghurst Blue', is most effectively propagated through stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is from late spring through to the early summer when the plant is actively growing. To do this, select a healthy, non-flowering shoot and cut a 2 to 3-inch (5 to 7.5 cm) length, removing the lower leaves to expose a clean stem. The cut end can be dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development, though this is optional. The prepared cutting should then be inserted into a pot filled with a mix of half peat and half perlite, sand, or vermiculite, pressing the soil down around it to secure the cutting. Ensure the medium stays moist but not waterlogged, and place the pot in a warm, bright area out of direct sunlight. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, after which the new rosemary plant can be transplanted to a larger pot or the garden.
