Garden herbs

Herb: Rosemary (Rosemarinus Officinalis)

Background: Rosemary was carried by the ancient Greeks and Romans at weddings and funerals. Rosemary has always grown wild around the Mediterranean coasts. One legend claims that the flower took its blue colour from the Virgin Mary's cloak when she threw it over a Rosemary bush.

Garden herb type: Perennial evergreen shrub.

Growing this herb: Rosemary seeds are very slow to germinate so they are best started off in a pot. Transplant them to a permanent position when the plants are well grown. Alternatively, beg a few cuttings from someone who has a Rosemary bush. This is best done in late summer.

Soil condition and garden position: Rosemary loves hot sun and poor, slightly limed soil which is well drained.

Appearance: A Rosemary bush can grow up to 4 or 5 feet tall. The narrow leaves are a blue/grey colour and the plant has dusty blue flowers.

Uses: The leaves are good for cooking lamb and fish (especially Halibut) they can also be used to flavour biscuits, eggs, cheese, jams, wine cups and jellies. An infusion of Rosemary is said to darken the hair if used as a rinse.

Nurturing herbs is an important part of gardening. Gardening Tools Direct have endeavored to group this information together for your interest. Please also see our garden related products.