Rosemary Salvia rosmarinus (Prostrata Group) 'Whitewater Silver' (Ro)
ABOUT
'Whitewater Silver' is a variety of rosemary renowned for its decorative character. The plant features a striking contrast with its evergreen foliage that is richly adorned with white-edged leaves. The foliage retains the classic needle-like shape associated with rosemary, offering a dense and lush appearance that is both fragrant and textured. Throughout the foliage, you will notice the prominent creamy-white variegation that adds a splash of brightness, accentuating the deep green of the leaves. When in bloom, this rosemary variety showcases pale blue flowers, which nestle among the leaves and add a delicate, soft hue to the overall presentation. These blooms are attractive to bees and other pollinators, adding an element of liveliness to the plant. 'Whitewater Silver' combines the traditional rosemary aesthetic with a unique variegated twist, resulting in a plant that is both elegant and eye-catching in a garden setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Creeping Rosemary, Trailing Rosemary, Prostrate Rosemary, Ground Cover Rosemary, Whitewater Silver Rosemary
Common names
Rosmarinus officinalis 'Prostratus', Rosmarinus officinalis 'Capri', Rosmarinus officinalis var. prostratus.
ToxicityTo humans
Rosemary, including the 'Whitewater Silver' cultivar, is generally considered non-toxic to humans and is widely used as a culinary herb. However, consuming large quantities can potentially have adverse effects, especially if you have certain health conditions or are pregnant. Consuming extremely large amounts may lead to gastrointestinal irritation, kidney damage, and seizures. It's also worth noting that the essential oils from rosemary are much more potent and can be toxic in high doses.
To pets
Rosemary, including the 'Whitewater Silver' variety, is generally considered non-toxic to pets, such as dogs and cats. It's often used as a natural flea repellent in pet products. Nonetheless, individually, some pets may be more sensitive, and high amounts may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. The concentrated essential oil of rosemary should be avoided as it can be more harmful to pets, potentially causing allergic reactions or more severe symptoms if ingested in large amounts.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Varies
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Culinary Uses: Rosemary is a popular herb in cooking, often used to flavor meats, soups, and sauces.
- Aromatic Foliage: The leaves of the rosemary plant have a refreshing scent that can add fragrance to gardens and homes.
- Drought Tolerance: Rosemary plants are well-suited to dry conditions and are relatively drought-resistant once established.
- Low Maintenance: This plant often requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for gardeners of all levels.
- Landscape Ornamentation: With its attractive foliage and form, rosemary can be a decorative addition to gardens, providing aesthetic value.
- Attracts Pollinators: Rosemary flowers can attract bees and other pollinators, benefiting the local ecosystem.
- Erosion Control: The 'Whitewater Silver' variety, being a prostrate form of rosemary, can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion, especially in sloped areas.
- Culinary Aesthetic: The 'Whitewater Silver' variety has distinctive white-edged leaves, which can add visual interest to culinary presentations.
- Habitat Friendly: Rosemary plants can serve as shelter for various small insects and animals in the garden.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant effects: Contains compounds that may help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
- Antimicrobial activity: Has been traditionally used to combat certain bacteria and funguses.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Some components might help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Cognitive enhancement: Associated with improved memory and concentration in traditional practices.
- Stress relief: Often used aromatherapeutically to alleviate stress and promote relaxation.
- Digestive aid: Sometimes used to help with digestive discomfort and to stimulate appetite.
- Pain relief: Applied topically in some traditional medicine systems to ease minor pains and aches.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Natural fabric dye: The leaves of rosemary can be used to dye wool and other natural fibers in various shades of green, depending on the mordant used.
- Furniture polish: An infusion of rosemary leaves can be mixed with natural oils to create a fragrant, non-toxic furniture polish.
- Memory enhancer: Rosemary is traditionally associated with memory and is used as a symbol for remembrance during weddings and funerals.
- Pest repellent: Hanging dried rosemary or placing sachets filled with its leaves can help deter moths and other insects from closets and drawers.
- Flavoring homemade soaps: Rosemary can be added to homemade soaps for its aroma and mild antiseptic properties.
- Meat preservation: Historically, rosemary has been used to preserve meats due to its antioxidant properties.
- Plant companion: When planted in the garden, rosemary can help repel certain pests and attract beneficial insects.
- Crafts and decorations: The woody stems of rosemary can be used to make wreaths and garlands.
- Enhancing indoor air: While not purifying, rosemary's fragrance can improve the scent of indoor spaces when potted plants are kept inside.
- Calligraphy ink: The essence of rosemary can be used to make a natural ink for calligraphy.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiRosemary is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityRosemary is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Memory: Rosemary, including Salvia rosmarinus, is often associated with remembrance and memory. This symbolism dates back to ancient times and is still prevalent today, often used in weddings, funerals, and commemorative events.
- Fidelity: Rosemary is also symbolic of loyalty and fidelity. It's sometimes used in wedding bouquets or given as a gift to represent a pledge of faithfulness.
- Love: The plant is frequently linked to love and desire, making it a popular choice in various romantic traditions and rituals.
- Protection: Historically, rosemary is believed to have protective qualities, used to ward off evil spirits and negativity. It was often planted near homes for this purpose.
- Healing: Known for its medicinal properties, rosemary symbolizes healing and has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
WaterCreeping rosemary, including the 'Whitewater Silver' variety, should be watered deeply but infrequently once established, aiming for about once a week during the growing season. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, as this plant prefers well-drained soil and does not tolerate standing water. During the summer or drier periods, water with approximately 1 gallon per week for mature plants to maintain soil moisture at a consistent level. During the winter or cooler months, reduce watering to every two to three weeks, depending on climate and soil dryness.
LightCreeping rosemary thrives best in full sun conditions. It requires a minimum of 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily to develop properly. The ideal location is a south-facing spot where it can receive ample sunlight throughout the day.
TemperatureCreeping rosemary prefers a temperate climate with temperatures ranging between 60°F and 70°F for optimal growth; however, it can withstand colder temperatures down to about 10°F and hotter temperatures up to around 125°F. It is a hardy plant that can survive occasional frost but should be protected from prolonged extreme cold.
PruningTo maintain shape and encourage dense foliage, creeping rosemary should be pruned after it flowers in the spring or early summer. Pruning is also essential to remove any dead or damaged branches and will help prevent fungal diseases by promoting good airflow. It can be pruned annually or as needed to keep the desired size and shape.
CleaningAs needed
SoilRosemary 'Whitewater Silver' thrives best in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of two parts potting soil to one part coarse sand or perlite is ideal. Ensure the soil mix does not retain excessive water to prevent root rot.
RepottingRosemary 'Whitewater Silver' should be repotted every 1 to 2 years. Young plants grow quickly and benefit from annual repotting, while mature plants can be repotted less frequently if they are not root-bound.
Humidity & MistingRosemary 'Whitewater Silver' prefers a drier environment and does well in average room humidity levels. Aim for humidity levels between 40% to 50% for optimal growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, water when soil is dry.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-drained soil; water sparingly.
Hardiness zone
8-10 USDA
Life cycleSalvia rosmarinus 'Whitewater Silver', commonly known as creeping rosemary, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in warm, well-draining soil with adequate sunlight. Upon germination, the seedling emerges and develops its first true leaves, entering the vegetative growth stage where it focuses on leaf development, rooting, and branch formation. As the plant matures, it becomes a hardy evergreen shrub with needle-like leaves and a creeping habit, which can be encouraged to spread by proper pruning. During spring and summer, the plant enters the reproductive stage, producing small blue to purplish flowers that are attractive to pollinators such as bees. After pollination, seeds are produced, allowing for the potential spread of new plants if conditions are favorable. Over time, creeping rosemary may become woody and dense, occasionally requiring rejuvenation pruning to maintain health and vigor.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Salvia rosmarinus, commonly known as creeping rosemary 'Whitewater Silver', is best propagated by taking stem cuttings. This method is usually performed in late spring or early summer, when the plant has fresh, new growth that isn't yet hardened. To propagate by cuttings, one would cut a 2 to 4 inch (5 to 10 cm) long stem, making sure that several leaves are on the stem. Then, the lowest leaves are stripped off, and the stem is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth. The cutting is then planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept in a warm, humid environment, ensuring that the soil stays moist but not waterlogged until roots develop, which usually takes a few weeks.
