A culinary herb that doubles as a tough, drought-proof, clip-able hedge. Aromatic, bee-friendly and evergreen — earns its place in the kitchen garden and the border alike.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 1.2 m tall
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Rosemary
Botanically, Salvia rosmarinus is a moderate-growing shrub in the Lamiaceae family. It reaches around 1.2 m tall at maturity, with evergreen, aromatic and silver-grey foliage. Blue flowers appear in winter and spring.
Where to grow Rosemary
Rosemary suits Mediterranean, warm-temperate and cool-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also tolerates salt-laden coastal winds and is a genuinely water-wise choice.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Rosemary provided drainage is reasonable. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Rosemary handles dry conditions well once established. Refresh mulch and provide a modest balanced feed at the start of spring. For the first year, favour occasional deep watering over frequent shallow drinks so roots move into the surrounding soil.
Pruning & care
Prune Rosemary after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Rosemary in the garden
Rosemary earns its place for edible harvests, a fast screen or informal hedge, feeding bees and pollinators and its fragrance.
Companion planting & design
Combine Rosemary with plants that share its preference for very drought tolerant and Mediterranean climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
