Rosemary Rosmarinus Officinalis
- Tammy Johnson
- Apr 24
- 2 min read
Written and edited by Tammy 24th April 2025
Rosemary: The Fragrant Herb of Remembrance and Resilience.
It's one of the most commonly sort after, popular plants in most Aussies gardens but its more than just a kitchen staple. Rosemary Rosmarinus Officinalis, now officially classified under the name Salvia Rosmarinus, has a rich history that spans continents and centuries. But here in Australia and New Zealand, rosemary carries a special meaning close to the heart.
A Symbol of Remembrance
During ANZAC Day services across Australia and New Zealand, sprigs of rosemary are often worn to honour the memory of those who served and sacrificed for us.
Why rosemary? Legend has it that the herb grew wild on the Gallipoli peninsula, where so many ANZAC soldiers fought bravely in 1915. Its strong, clean fragrance and evergreen nature made it a fitting emblem of enduring memory and loyalty.
Rosemary Rosmarinus Officinalis-the short and tall.
Originating from the Mediterranean, Rosemary grows extremely well here in our region, a cool temperate climate. Our long hot dry Summers and winter frosts don't phase the plant at all.
Both having different uses, two of the most common varieties of Rosemary grown are, 'Tuscan Blue’ and ‘Prostratus’ or ground cover Rosemary.
Tuscan Blue is perhaps the most popular form, known for its neat, tall upright growth habit.
It's this that makes it such a popular choice for borders and hedging in home gardens. The simplicity of mass plantings always oozes elegance and grandeur.
Prostratus, ground cover or trailing rosemary, on the other hand is often used in pots, hanging baskets or as ground cover spilling over the edges of rockeries.
As with Tuscan Blue, its aromatics and flavour are excellent for seasoning mediterranean inspired dishes. The classic and iconic roast leg of lamb just wouldn't be complete without it. Each variety of rosemary brings its own unique characteristics to both our cooking, and our gardens.
A few growing tips to get you started
Rosemary thrives in full sun. Find it a nice, sunny spot where it can soak up at least 6–8 hours a day.
Well-drained soil is key: Rosemary doesn’t like wet feet, so sandy or loamy soil with good drainage is ideal.
Minimal fuss: Once established, rosemary is drought-tolerant and low maintenance, it's water requirements are minimal.
Ideal for pots and containers: If space is tight or frost is a concern, grow rosemary in a pot or container so you can bring it under cover in extreme weather. Keep it right by the back door for not only its looks and fragrance, but the convenience of it being on hand for culinary use.
Prune for shape and health: A light trim after flowering will keep your plant bushy and prevent it from getting woody.
Fertilise- with a quality organic all-purpose fertiliser to aid new seasons growth.
Whether you’re using rosemary to bring structure and formality to your garden, or to quite simply season the humble roast potatoes, let it allow you to stop for a moment to honour the ANZAC spirit, its a living legacy.
Enjoy your gardens 😘🪴
Least we forget
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