Horti Tops® Rosemary

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

The Herb of Remembrance

Rosemary has been associated with memory and fidelity for thousands of years. Ancient Greek students wore rosemary garlands while studying for exams. Shakespeare wrote “rosemary for remembrance.” Modern research supports this tradition – rosemary aroma has been shown to improve memory and concentration.

Culinary Uses

With lamb: The classic pairing. Insert rosemary sprigs into slits in lamb before roasting, or scatter on the pan.

Roasted potatoes: Toss potato chunks with olive oil, rosemary, and garlic. Roast until crispy. The rosemary becomes aromatic and slightly crisp.

Focaccia: Press rosemary leaves and coarse salt into the dough before baking. The aromatic bread is irresistible.

Rosemary skewers: Strip leaves from sturdy rosemary branches, leaving a tuft at one end. Use as skewers for grilling – the meat absorbs the rosemary flavor.

Infused oil: Steep rosemary in warm olive oil for a fragrant finishing oil for bread, vegetables, or pasta.

Growing Rosemary

Rosemary is a Mediterranean native that thrives on neglect. It needs excellent drainage and full sun. Overwatering is the main killer – let soil dry between waterings. In cold climates, grow in pots and bring inside for winter, or choose cold-hardy varieties.

A mature rosemary plant provides more than one family can use. Harvest sprigs anytime, cutting just above a leaf node. Regular harvesting keeps plants bushy and prevents them from becoming woody and bare at the base.

Growing Rosemary