What Are the Different Types of Rosemary Plant

Rosemary is a versatile and aromatic herb that has been used for centuries in cooking, medicine, and even as an ornamental plant. With its distinct needle-like leaves and delicate blue flowers, rosemary adds both beauty and flavor to any garden or dish. While there are many different varieties of rosemary available, each with its own unique characteristics, four main types are commonly grown: Tuscan Blue, Prostrate, Arp, and Barbecue.

Tuscan Blue Rosemary

Tuscan Blue rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis ‘Tuscan Blue’) is one of the most popular varieties of rosemary. It is known for its upright growth habit, reaching heights of up to 6 feet tall. This variety has thick, dark green leaves that are highly aromatic and perfect for culinary use. The flowers of Tuscan Blue are a vibrant shade of blue and bloom in late spring to early summer.

One of the advantages of Tuscan Blue rosemary is its ability to withstand colder temperatures compared to other varieties. It is hardy to USDA zones 8-11, making it suitable for a wider range of climates. This variety also thrives in full sun and well-draining soil.

Prostrate Rosemary

Prostrate rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis ‘Prostratus’) is a low-growing variety that forms a dense mat of trailing branches. Unlike other types of rosemary that grow upright, prostrate rosemary hugs the ground and spreads out horizontally. This makes it an excellent choice for ground covers or cascading over walls or containers.

The leaves of prostrate rosemary are small and narrow with a deep green color. They are highly aromatic and have a delightful fragrance when crushed. This variety produces delicate light blue flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer.

Prostrate rosemary is drought-tolerant and prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is hardy in USDA zones 7-10, making it suitable for a range of climates.

Arp Rosemary

Arp rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis ‘Arp’) is a hardy variety that is known for its ability to withstand harsh winter conditions. It is a tall and upright plant, reaching heights of up to 4 feet tall. The leaves of Arp rosemary are grayish-green and have a slightly fuzzy texture, giving them a unique appearance.

One of the distinctive features of Arp rosemary is its strong fragrance. The leaves release a powerful aroma when touched or brushed against, making it a popular choice for use in potpourri or sachets. This variety also produces delicate light blue flowers that bloom in late spring.

Arp rosemary is drought-tolerant and prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is hardy in USDA zones 6-10, making it suitable for colder climates compared to other varieties.

Barbecue Rosemary

Barbecue rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis ‘Barbecue’) is a compact and bushy variety of rosemary that is specifically bred for its culinary qualities. It has a dense growth habit and reaches heights of up to 2 feet tall. The leaves of barbecue rosemary are thick and dark green, perfect for flavoring grilled meats or vegetables.

What sets barbecue rosemary apart from other varieties is its strong flavor profile. The leaves have a robust and smoky taste, making them ideal for adding depth to marinades or rubs. This variety also produces delicate light blue flowers that bloom in late spring.

Barbecue rosemary requires full sun and well-drained soil. It is hardy in USDA zones 8-11, making it suitable for warmer climates.

Conclusion

Rosemary is a versatile herb with a wide range of varieties, each offering its own unique characteristics. Whether you choose Tuscan Blue for its upright growth and cold-hardiness, Prostrate for its trailing habit, Arp for its ability to withstand harsh winters, or Barbecue for its robust flavor, there is a rosemary variety to suit every gardener’s needs.

No matter which type of rosemary you choose, this aromatic herb will undoubtedly add beauty and flavor to your garden and culinary creations. So why not plant a few different varieties and enjoy the diverse world of rosemary?