Rosemary Salvia rosmarinus 'Tuscan Blue' (Ro)

Names

• Family

  Lamiaceae

• Synonyms

  Rosemary, Tuscan Blue Rosemary

• Common names

  Rosmarinus officinalis, Rosmarinus officinalis var. albiflorus, Rosmarinus officinalis var. angustissimus, Rosmarinus officinalis var. angustifolius, Rosmarinus officinalis var. argenteus, Rosmarinus officinalis var. aureus, Rosmarinus officinalis var. lavandulaceus, Rosmarinus officinalis var. prostratus, Rosmarinus officinalis var. palaui, Salvia officinalis var. rosmarinus.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Rosemary is generally not toxic to humans and is widely used as an herb in cooking. However, consuming large quantities of the essential oil or the plant in concentrated forms can potentially lead to toxicity. Side effects of rosemary toxicity may include vomiting, spasms, coma, and in some cases, pulmonary edema. It is important to use rosemary in moderation and to consult with a healthcare professional if any adverse reactions occur.

• To pets

  Rosemary is generally considered non-toxic to pets and is often used as a natural flea repellent. However, as with humans, consuming large amounts of the essential oil could potentially lead to toxicity. Symptoms of rosemary poisoning in pets may include gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea. Using rosemary in reasonable cooking amounts around pets is usually safe, but caution should be taken with essential oils and concentrated extracts.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Evergreen

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Blue

• Height

  6 feet (1.8 meters)

• Spread

  4 feet (1.2 meters)

• Plant type

  Shrub

• Hardiness zones

  8

• Native area

  Mediterranean

General Benefits

• Culinary Uses: Rosemary is widely used in cooking for flavoring meat dishes, stews, and soups, particularly in Mediterranean cuisine.
• Aromatic Qualities: The plant emits a pleasant fragrance which can naturally freshen up the surrounding environment.
• Landscape Design: Rosemary 'Tuscan Blue' adds aesthetic value to gardens with its beautiful blue flowers and evergreen needle-like leaves.
• Drought Tolerance: The plant is adaptable to dry conditions, making it a good choice for water-wise gardens.
• Pollinator Attraction: Its flowers can attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, promoting biodiversity.
• Easy Maintenance: Rosemary is known for being hardy and requiring minimal care once established.
• Culinary Use: Rosemary can be used fresh or dried and is a staple in various culinary traditions.
• Evergreen Presence: Being an evergreen, rosemary provides year-round color and structure in a garden.

Medical Properties

• Antioxidant - Rosemary contains compounds that can help protect the body from oxidative stress.
• Anti-inflammatory - It may reduce inflammation, potentially benefiting conditions like arthritis.
• Antimicrobial - Rosemary oil has been shown to possess antimicrobial properties against certain pathogens.
• Neuroprotective effects - There is some evidence suggesting rosemary may have a protective effect on the brain and nervous system.
• Cognitive enhancement - Some studies suggest rosemary might improve cognitive performance and mood.
• Digestive health - Traditionally, rosemary has been used to help alleviate digestive issues like indigestion and bloating.
• Respiratory health - Inhalation of rosemary essential oil may help with respiratory conditions by acting as a decongestant.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Ro can be used as a natural wood conditioner and preservative; the oil derived from ro helps in maintaining wooden furniture and preventing degradation.
• The plant can be used in aromatic sachets; dried ro leaves keep linens smelling fresh and can also deter moths.
• Ros can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics; traditionally, it has been used to give a subtle green tint to various textiles.
• The stems of ro can be used as skewers for barbecue; they impart a distinctive flavor to meats and vegetables when used on the grill.
• Ro leaves can be infused in oils and vinegars, creating flavored condiments for culinary use that carry its unique aroma and taste.
• Leaves of this plant can be included in homemade potpourri mixtures, contributing a refreshing scent to home decor.
• Ro can also serve as a natural insect repellent; placing branches around the home may help deter flies and mosquitoes.
• Fresh ro sprigs are often used as a natural air freshener in cars or closets, emitting a pleasant scent without synthetic chemicals.
• The flowers of ro can be used in edible landscaping, providing both visual appeal and a source of garnish for dishes.
• In arts and crafts, ro sprigs can be incorporated into wreaths, floral arrangements, or other decorations for adding a natural element with Mediterranean flair.

Feng Shui

The Rosemary plant is commonly used to purify and cleanse a space, promoting clarity and concentration. It can be placed in the study or home office to enhance focus or in the kitchen to promote health and well-being. The plant's strong and fresh scent is believed to energize the room and support mental acuity.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Rosemary plant is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Remembrance - Historically linked with memory, Tuscan Blue rosemary is often used in ceremonies to honor those who have passed, reflecting a desire to remember and keep memories alive.
• Loyalty - Evergreen nature of rosemary symbolizes constancy and fidelity, making it a plant associated with loyal love and enduring relationships.
• Protection - Rosemary is thought to ward off evil spirits and negativity. It's often planted or placed around homes for its protective qualities.
• Healing - With its aromatic oils and history of medicinal use, rosemary represents healing and has been used in various therapies to improve well-being.
• Purification - The strong scent and cleansing properties of rosemary tie it to purifying rituals and the cleaning of spaces, both physically and spiritually.
• Friendship - Sharing rosemary between friends is a gesture that implies the strengthening of the bond, as the plant is seen as an emblem of camaraderie.