Rosemary Romero, Pilgrims Plant, Mary's Mantle, Compass Weed

Rosmarinus officinalis

Choose a sheltered position and well-drained soil, and allow the plant lots of sun. Water in between dry downs; do not use enclosed planters. Their roots dislike being cramped up.

Use a good household potting soil mix and organic compost (not too much if it is a moist variety — this will be too strong in a pot and may contribute to root rot). Make sure it is well drained, well watered and spray the leaves with water every so often, especially if you have the heat up in the winter.

Prune the plant every autumn to keep the plant at an ideal size.

Direct seeding is not always successful. Start seeds indoors and transplant the seedlings out. Darkness will aid germination. Cover the seeds lightly with soil after sowing. Germination time 14-21 days. Sow heavily because the seeds have a poor germination rate. Some seeds can germinate up to 3 months after sowing.

Does not transplant well, so should be planted in the container it was started in. Drought resistant. Tender Perennial.

These plants will grow well with Rosemary:

These plants will not grow well with Rosemary so avoid planting these within close proximity:

These pests are known to attack Rosemary plants:

These problems and diseases are known to effect Rosemary plants:

It is said that the Virgin Mary had draped her cloak over this bush and placed a white flower on top of her cloak. In the morning the flower turned blue and thereafter the plant was called Rose of Mary. The botanical epithet is from the Latin officinalis meaning “used medicinally”

Tradition says that rosemary will grow for thirty-three years, until it reaches the height of Christ when he was crucified, then it will die. Sprigs of rosemary were placed under pillows at night to ward off evil spirits and bad dreams. The wood was used to make lutes and other musical instruments. It is a symbol or remembrance and friendship, and is often carried by wedding couples as a sign of love and fidelity.