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Salvia rosmarinus /ˈsælviə roːs.maˈriː.nʊs/

Common name: Rosemary

Salvia rosmarinus is a fragrant evergreen shrub in the mint family, Lamiaceae, native to the Mediterranean region. Its needle-like leaves and small blue flowers make it a popular culinary herb and ornamental plant. It was long classified in its own genus, Rosmarinus, before being moved into Salvia in 2017.

Fun facts

  • In folklore, rosemary symbolizes remembrance and was worn at weddings and funerals.
  • Rosemary can live for decades and is sometimes shaped into hedges or topiary.
  • Its Latin name means “dew of the sea,” a nod to its coastal Mediterranean habitat.

Care summary

Sun Full sun
Water Low; let soil dry between waterings
Soil Well-draining, sandy, slightly acidic to neutral
Hardiness Zones 8–10
Mature height Up to 1.5 m (5 ft)
Pet safe Generally non-toxic to cats and dogs
Difficulty Moderate
Propagation Semi-ripe stem cuttings root reliably: take 10-15 cm tips in late summer, remove the lower leaves, and insert into a gritty, free-draining mix kept barely moist and out of direct sun until rooted. Seed germination is slow and erratic, so cuttings are strongly preferred.

Make your own Rosemary profile

Common problems

    • Give plants full sun and airflow
    • Thin crowded clumps in spring
    • Remove mildewed leaves as they appear
    • Plant in sharply drained soil
    • Avoid overwatering established plants
    • Raise beds where drainage is poor
    • Pick off slugs after dusk
    • Use grit or wool barriers around plants
    • Set beer traps near new growth
    • Pinch back tips in spring
    • Move plants into full sun
    • Deadhead spent spikes promptly