Salvia rosmarinus

Rosemary is an perennial evergreen herb that is irregulary mounded and is valued for its fragrant, ornamental foliage and as an enhancement in cooking. It blooms from fall to spring. Key ID elements are the aromatic linear leaves which are green on top and whitish underneath, and also the axillary flowers. Flower color fades in hot weather to blend with foliage and is most pronounced in late winter. It is used in containers, as low hedges, and in places where it can cascade. Rosemary has a low tolerance for wet, humid environments and requires careful tending in an appropriate spot in North Carolina gardens. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot, and poor air circulation, which can foster powdery mildew.The plant has an arching or rounded form and, when mature, can reach 6 feet in height. Note that the cultivar, 'Prostratus', has a form that is lower and creeping.

Rosemary plants are slow to germinate from seed and gardeners might find more success propagating from stem cuttings, layering, or division. Once established, rosemary is drought and salt spray tolerant and resists predation from deer. Wet, poorly-drained soils in winter are usually fatal, and heavy clay soils and overwatering can retard plant growth, but Rosemary does best in light, slightly acidic, dry to medium, well-drained soils in full sun. It tolerates drought, shade, salt, heavy pruning and most soil types. It is easily transplanted and rooted. Rosemary does display pale to dark blue flowers and, once the bloom has passed, you can severely prune to encourage dense foliage growth or cut to specific shapes.

The genus name, Rosmarinus, comes from the Latin words ros (dew) and marinus (sea), or dew of the sea, in probable reference to the ability of this plant to thrive well in coastal areas (sea cliffs) and exposure to ocean mists. 

Quick ID Hints:

• Linear leaves are green on top & whitish underneath
• Flowers are axillary, usually blue
• Foliage is evergreen, aromatic when bruised