Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Another plant from the mint family is native to the Mediterranean regions and much of Europe.  Rosemary is a perennial shrub and can grow up to 1 – 2 meters high. Sometimes 6.6″ Tall. This plant attracts lots of Bees! It is also very resistant to pests and plant diseases. However, they can get fungal infections like powdery mildew in humid climates like Ontario. It is also common to host spittlebugs.

Fun Facts about Rosemary

In ancient times Rosemary was believed to strengthen memory and was a symbol of remembrance and fidelity.

Rosemary is great for repelling mosquitoes in the summer. It has a woody fragrance that is evergreen-like. Egyptians used to use rosemary in their burial rituals and considered it sacred.

My Grandfather told me that during the war in Europe and Australia rosemary was a symbol to pray, love, and remember. The herb grows wild on the Gallipoli Peninsula where many Australians died during WW1.  It’s also mentioned in Shakespeare’s Hamlet book.

“There’s rosemary, that’s for remembrance. Pray, you, love, remember.”