Rosemary

Rosemarinus officinalis

Description

This small, perennial evergreen shrub is not hardy beyond the mild Zone 6 area, and is usually treated as an annual in Illinois. The plant is very fragrant and valuable in cooking and scenting. The narrow, leathery evergreen leaves are dark green above and gray underneath. It produces clusters of pale blue, white or pink flowers in spring.

How to Grow

Purchase garden transplants or propagate from stem tip cuttings. Plant rosemary in a sunny, well -drained site and space them one foot apart. Rosemary also grows well in a container. Keep plants evenly moist. Do not allow them to dry out. In fall, plant in fresh potting mix and bring indoors to enjoy throughout the winter.

Harvesting

Prune stems throughout the season as needed. Use fresh or dried leaves in cooking. It is often mixed with other herbs.