How do I grow Rosemary?
Now is a fantastic time to establish this versatile Mediterranean plant which doubles as a culinary delight as well as being very decorative especially when in flower. Perhaps the most common form is upright with blue flowers with the variety ‘Blue Lagoon’ being a good choice. However, less common forms include those with pink (eg ‘Pink Remembrance’) and white flowers (eg ‘Sissinghurst White’) that are available from specialist herb nurseries. Another variation worth looking out for is a ground covering type such as the variety ‘Jackman’s Prostrate’, which looks great spilling over walls and pots.
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Prostrate rosemary
Rosemary is a long-lived perennial shrub or ground cover that thrives in a sunny well-drained position. It dislikes boggy conditions, but is very drought tolerant. Cut back by a third to encourage a more compact habit, as rosemary can become a bit sprawling if left unchecked.
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Rosemary
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Rosemary
The shoot tips can be pinched out to provide extra flavour for a wide range of dishes with the old favourite being sprigs of rosemary dotted into a lamb roast.
Rosemary is another herb that has great medicinal and useful properties. ‘Rosemary for rememberance’ has a basis in fact, as research shows that it can increase blood flow to the head and brain. It stimulates the immune system and is anti-inflammatory. So when you add it to your cooking, you are also helping your health! Plant one today, and you’ll have rosemary sprigs on hand to commemorate Anzac day.