osmarinus officinalis – The Classic Evergreen Rosemary for Garden and Kitchen
Rosmarinus officinalis, the well-loved rosemary, is a versatile evergreen shrub prized for its aromatic foliage, culinary value, and ornamental beauty. With its fine, needle-like leaves and bushy growth, it adds fragrance and structure to the garden all year round. From spring to early summer, clusters of delicate pale blue flowers appear, much loved by bees and pollinators.
Renowned as a culinary herb, rosemary is essential in the kitchen, adding flavour to roasts, marinades, breads, and oils. In the garden, it brings Mediterranean charm to sunny borders and thrives in poor, well-drained soils where many plants struggle. Its evergreen presence ensures year-round interest, whether planted as a specimen, low hedge, or container feature.
Seasonal Beauty & Growth
Spring & Summer:
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Bushy evergreen shrub with aromatic dark green leaves.
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Pale blue flowers appear, drawing bees and butterflies.
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Fresh foliage harvested for culinary use.
Autumn & Winter:
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Retains neat evergreen foliage, adding year-round form.
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Continues to provide fresh, aromatic leaves for cooking.
Structure & Form
Height & Spread: Typically 1–1.5 m tall and wide.
Form: Bushy, upright habit with woody stems.
Foliage: Evergreen, aromatic, needle-like grey-green leaves.
Flowers: Small, pale blue blooms in spring to early summer.
Perfect for Various Landscapes
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Herb Gardens: A staple culinary herb.
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Borders: Adds evergreen structure and fragrance.
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Hedging: Works as a low, fragrant hedge.
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Mediterranean Gardens: Perfect companion to lavender, thyme, and sage.
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Containers: Thrives in pots on sunny patios.
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Wildlife Gardens: Flowers provide nectar for bees.
Growing Conditions & Care
Position: Full sun.
Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Maintenance: Low-maintenance; prune lightly after flowering to maintain bushy shape. Avoid cutting into old wood.
Hardiness: Hardy across most of the UK (H4–H5). Protect in colder or exposed sites.
Why Choose Rosmarinus officinalis?
As both a practical kitchen herb and a decorative garden shrub, rosemary is unmatched in its versatility. Its evergreen foliage, bee-friendly flowers, and adaptability to dry, poor soils make it a reliable choice for gardeners and cooks alike. A timeless favourite that never loses its charm.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.