This genus is part of the large mint family, which includes many familar culinary and medicinal herbs. Rosemary itself has been cultivated for centuries, being grown fro the aromatic oil distilled from the shoots and leaves, and for use as a culinary herb. The genus contains just 2 species of evergreen shrubs from the Mediterranean region, and includes up-right and prostrate varities. They have short linear leaves and their small 2-lipped flowers are usually pale blue and borne along the branches, which can become quite woody with age. Apart from its culinary uses, rose-mary has been credited with many properties throughout its long cultivation: in ancient Greece, students wore sprigs of fresh rosemary in their hair believing the invigorating aroma would serve as an aid to mental clarity. This benefit has also been recognized by modern-day pracitioners of aromatherapy.
CULTIVATION
Rosemary likes a hot dry position and will grow in all sorts of well-drained soils; it will not tolerate wet winter conditions. It should be pruned after flowering to maintain a bushy compact habit, and is suitable for use as a hedging plant. Propagation is usually from softwood or half-hardened cuttings taken in summer.
Top Tip
Rosemary is an ideal plant for a mixed border, a hedge, or against a sunny wall. The flowers are edible, as well as decorative, and can be used in salads.
CULTIVATION
Rosemary likes a hot dry position and will grow in all sorts of well-drained soils; it will not tolerate wet winter conditions. It should be pruned after flowering to maintain a bushy compact habit, and is suitable for use as a hedging plant. Propagation is usually from softwood or half-hardened cuttings taken in summer.
Top Tip
Rosemary is an ideal plant for a mixed border, a hedge, or against a sunny wall. The flowers are edible, as well as decorative, and can be used in salads.
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