Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) is a member of the Lamiaceae family. This culinary herb exhibits a bushy growth habit and is characterised by its evergreen foliage. It has a hardiness rating of hardy (average winter [-10 to -5ºc]) and is hardy throughout most of the UK apart from inland valleys, at altitude, and in central/northerly locations. May suffer foliage damage and stem dieback in harsh winters in cold gardens, with plants in pots being more vulnerable.
When fully mature, Rosmarinus officinalis can reach an ultimate height of 1.5–2.5 metres and a spread of 1.5–2.5 metres. For optimal growth, it prefers a south–facing, west–facing, or east–facing aspect and an exposed or sheltered position. It thrives best in chalk, clay, loam, or sand soil types and should be placed in full sun.
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