Rosemary is an aromatic evergreen shrub with leaves similar to hemlock needles. It is native to the Mediterranean region, but is reasonably hardy in cool climates. It can withstand droughts, surviving a severe lack of water for lengthy periods. It is often difficult to start, with a low germination rate and relatively slow growing, but the plant can live up to 35 years.

Ranging from upright to trailing; the upright plants can reach 1.5 m (4 ft 11 in) tall, and rarely 2 m (6 ft 7 in). The leaves are evergreen, approximately 2–4 cm long and 0.25 cm broad, green above, and white below, with dense, short hairs.

The plant flowers in spring and summer in temperate climates, but the plants can be in constant bloom in warm climates; flowers are white, pink, purple or deep blue. Rosemary also has a tendency to flower outside its normal flowering season; it has been known to flower as late as early December, and as early as mid-February (in the northern hemisphere)

Planting Instructions:

This herb can be grown in the ground or in a pot. If you live in Zones 7 and warmer, it grows easily as a perennial evergreen shrub that lives for many years. Rosemary is hardy down to 15 to 23°F (-10 to -5°C), so it may need winter protection. In colder areas, rosemary should be grown in a pot and brought indoors for the winter

The best time to plant rosemary is in spring, once the soil is starting to warm up. However, it can be planted right through to early autumn in mild weather. If you plant it in summer, avoid hot spells and water regularly until it’s well rooted in. 

Rosemary grows well in large containers aswell, use a light weight soil mix high in nutrients. To improve drainage put some gravel in the bottom of the container, and make sure there are plenty of holes so excess water can drain.

Cover the seeds lightly, as light is required for germination. Keep flats at 55-60°F (12-16°C) and keep the soil moist, but not soaked, until germination occurs

 Thin out the seedlings into individual pots once large enough to handle, then keep in a warm, bright spot and water regularly. They can be planted outside once they’re at least 10cm (4in) tall.