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Key characteristics

Family: Lamiaceae
Height: 3 to 5 feet
Width: 3 to 4 feet
Flower color: Blue, purple, or white, small, tubular
Foliage color: Dark green, needle-like leaves with a silvery underside
Bloom time: Spring to early summer
Light: Full sun
Water: Moderate
Maintenance: Low; prune to maintain shape
Growing zone: USDA zones 8 to 10
Wildlife: Attracts bees, butterflies, and birds

Shrubs

Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosemary

Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, is a fragrant, evergreen herb native to the Mediterranean region. This versatile plant is highly valued for its aromatic leaves, which are often used in cooking, especially for flavoring meats, vegetables, and sauces. Rosemary is also known for its attractive, needle-like foliage that is green on top and silvery white underneath. During late winter to early spring, it produces small, tubular flowers in shades of blue, purple, or white, attracting pollinators such as bees.

Light

Full sun

Water

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring to early summer

Find this plant

Works well in

Sun Gardens
Mediterranean Gardens
Pathways & Walkways
Pollinator Gardens

Companion plants

Aster · Firethorn · Sneezeweed · Blue grama grass · Hebe · Manzanita

Design tip

Border a sunny patio or outdoor dining area with rosemary, where brushing past the foliage releases its fragrance and keeps fresh sprigs conveniently within reach. Its narrow leaves also offer a pleasing contrast to plants with broader, softer foliage nearby.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)