A researched TAFE plant identification study record for Salvia rosmarinus, the accepted name for rosemary. The long-familiar name Rosmarinus officinalis remains an important botanical synonym.

Identification

Rosemary is a densely branched evergreen shrub with strongly aromatic, narrow linear leaves. Leaf upper surfaces are dark green, while the margins roll under toward a pale, felted underside. Young stems show the square-stemmed character typical of the mint family. Small two-lipped flowers arise in the leaf axils and are usually pale violet-blue, though white, pink and deeper blue forms occur.

Distribution and variation

The species is native around the Mediterranean and is adapted to exposed, rocky and seasonally dry sites. Garden selections vary from prostrate groundcovers to upright shrubs, so a cultivar's habit should not be used as the sole species-level character.

Cultivation and use

Give full sun, moving air and excellent drainage. Established plants need relatively little supplementary water, but newly planted rosemary still requires consistent establishment watering. Trim green growth to maintain density; repeated cuts into old leafless wood may not regenerate evenly. Flowers provide nectar for bees and other pollinators. Leaves are widely used as a culinary herb.

Safety note

Correct identification and appropriate food-growing practices remain essential. Concentrated essential oil is not equivalent to normal culinary use, and plant contact can trigger skin irritation in susceptible individuals.