Native of Mediterranean region

Family: Labiatae

Appearance: Tender shrub with glossy, strongly scented, evergreen needlelike leaves with a flashy light stripe below and blue, lavender, or white flowers. Flowers are borne on old growth in late winter. When grown outside in warm climates (zones 8-10), most rosemary cultivars can grow up to 6 feet high. Prostrate forms creep along the ground.

Growing Know-How: In warm climates, plant rosemary in well-drained soil and full sun, spacing plants 2 to 3 feet apart. Prune lightly to shape. In cold climates, grow rosemary in pots to bring indoors during winter. Put them in a sunny window or under artificial lights. Use well-drained potting mix and be careful you don't water so much that the soil gets soggy. Fertilize once a month during the growing season with dilute, balanced, organic fertilizer.

Cultivars: In zone 7, try extra-hardy 'Arp' or 'Hill Hardy'. For a bright white flower, grow R. officinalis 'Albus'. For baskets or ground covers, try low-growing creeping rosemary, R. officinalis 'Prostratus'.

Propagation: Start new plants by layering or stem cuttings. Rosemary will grow from seed, but the process is slow and the seedlings are not true to cultivar.

Potential Problems: Provide well-drained soil to prevent root rot and good air circulation to discourage powdery mildew.

Harvesting and Using: Rosemary has a strong flavor. Use it in bouquet garni with chicken, meat, vegetable, and tomato dishes - pull the leathery sprigs out before serving. You can use rosemary dried or fresh (snip or mince finely).