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Northwest Blooms · Shrubs

Rosmarinus officinalis 'Prostratus'

Creeping Rosemary

Rosmarinus officinalis 'Prostratus'
Family
Lamiaceae
Height
12 in to 24 in
Width
4 ft to 8 ft
Flower color
Pale blue to lavender flowers with soft violet tones along trailing stems
Foliage color
Dark green needle like leaves with silvery undersides and a resinous texture
Bloom time
Late winter to spring
Light
Full sun
Water
Low once established
Maintenance
Low; trim lightly after flowering to maintain shape and prevent woodiness
Growing zone
USDA zones 8 to 10
Wildlife
Bees, pollinators and occasional hummingbirds attracted to nectar

About this plant

Rosmarinus officinalis 'Prostratus' produces small, pale blue to lavender-blue flowers along its trailing stems, appearing from late winter into spring with occasional repeat bloom through the year. Narrow, needle-like leaves are deep green above with a lighter underside, releasing a strong, aromatic fragrance when brushed. The foliage forms dense, cascading layers that follow the contours of the ground or spill over edges, while the flowers are spaced along the stems in loose clusters that attract bees and other early pollinators.

Native to the Mediterranean region, this cultivar reflects the species' long history in warm, coastal landscapes. It is well suited to rock gardens, retaining walls, containers, and slopes, where its trailing habit softens hard edges and creates flowing movement. Its evergreen presence and extended bloom period contribute year-round structure and seasonal interest in garden designs.

Works well in

Sun Gardens · Mediterranean Gardens · Slopes & Banks · Containers

Companion plants

Irises · Peruvian lily · Aster · Pampas grass · Stonecrop · Fothergilla

Design tip

Spill ‘Prostratus’ over the top of a retaining wall, where its long trailing stems can turn a hard vertical edge into a softer garden feature. Nearby upright plants will heighten the cascading effect and keep the composition from feeling flat.