Rosemary – Botanical Profile

Rosemary

Salvia rosmarinus, syn. Rosmarinus officinalis L., Lamiaceae Family

Distribution and Habitat

Native to the Mediterranean basin. Prefers dry, rocky soils and full sun.

The name “rosemary” originates from the Latin term ros marinus, which means “dew of the sea.” This name likely refers to the plant’s natural habitat near the Mediterranean coast, where it often grows close to the sea and appears as if it is covered in sea dew.

Botanical and Morphological Description

An evergreen aromatic shrub.

• Root: Woody root system.
• Stem: Woody, much branched.
• Leaves: Opposite, linear, needle-like, dark green above, whitish and tomentose beneath.
• Flower: Bilabiate, pale blue to violet, arranged in axillary clusters.
• Fruit: Four nutlets.
• Seeds: Small, brown.

Key Identification Features: needle-like leaves with rolled margins., strong aromatic scent., woody shrub habit.