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Rosemary

Latin Name: Rosmarinum officinalus

Geographic Source:
Rosemary is native to the Mediterranean. Today it is widely produced in France, Spain, and Portugal.

Description:
Rosemary is an herb in the mint family. It is a small evergreen shrub, Rosmarinus officinalis, whose 1inch leaves resemble curved pine needles.

Taste and Aroma:
Rosemary has a tea like aroma and a piney flavor.

History:
Rosemary's name is rooted in legend. The story goes that during her flight from Egypt, the Virgin Mary draped her blue cloak on a Rosemary bush. She then laid a white flower on top of the cloak. That night, the flower turned blue and the bush was thereafter known as the "rose of Mary". Greeks, who wove Rosemary wreaths into their hair, believed Rosemary strengthened the brain and enhanced memory. It was also known as a symbol of fidelity. In the Middle Ages, Rosemary was used medicinally and as a condiment for salted meats. In Europe, wedding parties burned Rosemary as incense. Judges burned it to protect against illness brought on by prisoners.

Ethnic Uses:
All Rosemaries are tender perennials. It is an ancient, savory herb, especially popular in Italian dishes. Rosemary has dense, aromatic, needle-like leaves with woody stems. The leaves are antiseptic, anti-oxidant and aid in the digestion of fat. The essential oil is antibacterial, antifungal and invigorating. It relieves muscular pain and stimulates circulation. Rosemary is used primarily in Italy in lamb, pork, chicken, and rabbit dishes.

• Arp ~ Latin Name: Rosmarinum officinalus - The hardiest of all rosemaries with an upright habit and gray/green leaves.
• Blue Spire ~ Latin Name: Rosmarinum officinalus - Lavender flowers on tall stems with many branches.

Creeping ~ Latin Name: Rosmarinum officinalus - Trailing rosemary, excellent for hanging baskets.

• Hill Hardy ~ Latin Name: Rosmarinum officinalus - Also known as Madeline Hill. a strong, hardy variety.

Logee's Blue ~ Latin Name: Rosmarinum officinalus - Beautiful blue flowers, upright growth habit.

• Mrs. Howard's Creeping ~ Latin Name: Rosmarinum officinalus - Great for training on topiaries, a vigorous grower.
• Salem ~ Latin Name: Rosmarinum officinalus - Upright rosemary, cold tolerant.

Note: The information provided is for educational purposes only. Do not consider this information complete.

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