Rosemary
Salvia rosmarinus
Family: Lamiaceae
Rosemary is an aromatic, woody evergreen shrub with needle-like leaves. Its piney, slightly minty flavor is essential for roasted meats and Mediterranean cooking.
Days to Harvest
85-100 days
Sun Needs
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
low
Germination Temp
70°F optimal
Start Indoors
12 weeks before last frost
Germination
14-28 days
Seed Depth
Surface sow
Light to Germinate
Yes
đź’ˇ Tip: Germination is slow and erratic. Cuttings are more reliable.
Soil Type
Well-draining, sandy or gravelly soil
pH Range
6 - 8
Spacing
24-36 inches between plants
⚠️ Avoid planting near:
History
Native to the Mediterranean, rosemary has been used since ancient times for cooking, medicine, and ceremony. Its name means "dew of the sea" in Latin.
Nutritional Benefits
- âś“Contains carnosic acid (antioxidant)
- âś“May improve memory and concentration
- âś“Anti-inflammatory compounds
Optimal Growing Temp
60°F - 80°F
Rosemary thrives in warm Mediterranean conditions. Tolerates heat well. Cold tolerance varies by variety.
Survival Range
30°F - 95°F
Can survive these temperatures
Frost Note: Hardy to zones 7-8 (some varieties to zone 6). May die back in cold winters but regrow from roots. Protect young plants.
Best USDA Zones
Humidity
30-50%
Prefers low humidity. Excellent drainage essential. Prone to fungal issues in humid conditions.
Height
2-4 feet
Spread
2-4 feet
Growth Habit
upright
Germination
14-28 days
Very slow, erratic germination. Cuttings much easier and faster than seed.
Seedling Stage
Duration: 8-12 weeks
True leaves: Narrow, needle-like leaves with strong rosemary scent.
Transplant ready: Ready when 4-6 inches tall (3-4 months from seed). Much faster from cuttings.
Vegetative Growth
Duration: Continuous
Woody shrub that grows slowly. Harvest sprigs anytime. Prune regularly to maintain shape.
Flowering
Timing: Late winter to spring
Duration: 4-6 weeks
Blue flowers highly attractive to bees. Bloom time varies by climate.
Harvest Maturity
Timing: 2-3 years to reach full size
- Woody stems
- Dense growth
- Regular flowering
Per Plant
Abundant harvest from mature plants. One plant provides plenty for typical household.
Per Square Foot
1 plant per 4-9 square feet (needs space to grow)
Harvest Frequency
Harvest sprigs as needed year-round. Light pruning anytime.
Factors Affecting Yield
- •Sun exposure
- •Well-draining soil
- •Age—mature plants most productive
Seedling Stage
Keep lightly moist but never soggy.
Established Plants
Allow to dry between waterings. Every 7-14 days. Very drought tolerant.
During Fruiting
Reduce water before flowering.
Preferred Method
Water deeply but infrequently. Excellent drainage critical.
Pro Tips
- Overwatering kills rosemary more than underwatering
- When in doubt, don't water
Feeding Schedule
Established
Light compost
Once in spring (optional)
Organic Options
Minimal feeding. Poor soil produces more flavorful rosemary.
Minimum Size
12 inch pot
Recommended Size
14-18 inch pot
Depth Required
At least 12-14 inches
Best Varieties for Containers
Container Tips
- Excellent in containers—allows overwintering indoors
- Use very well-draining soil
- Terra cotta pots help prevent overwatering
- Move indoors before hard frost in cold zones
