chagrinvalleyherbsociety Fun Facts
Growing
While Rosmarinus officinalis has long been the botanical name for rosemary, DNA research has revealed that the plant characteristics are more closely aligned with plants in the Salvia genus. Therefore, the scientists at the Royal Horticultural Society in London have reclassified rosemary as Salvia Rosmarinus. The plant is a shrub-like with evergreen leaves and small pale blue to purple flowers. Propagate by seed, cuttings and division of roots. Grow rosemary in well-drained soil with additional sand or gravel added to the mix. Water rosemary when the soil is slightly dry to avoid root rot. Prune after flowering to encourage bushy growth. Depending on the cultivar, rosemary can be hardy to zone 6. Winter protection can improve hardiness. I have been experimenting with mine and leave one in the ground covered with a glass bell cloche and this year I potted another and brought it inside. Indoors, rosemary prefers a sunny, cool room and water when drying but before completely dry. To help prevent mildew while indoors, make sure it has plenty of ventilation.
Historical
The genus name Salvia comes from the Latin word salveo, meaning “to save or heal”. Early Egyptians used rosemary in their embalming practices. Rosemary is associated with improved memory and alertness. Greek scholars often wore a rosemary garland on their heads to help their memory during exams. As a symbol of happiness, loyalty, and love, rosemary sprigs were used in bridal bouquets, or a simple sprig was worn by the groom symbolizing faithfulness. Brides also wore wreaths of rosemary dipped in scented water to symbolize fidelity. One famous bride noted for her rosemary hair wreath was Anne of Cleaves, wife of Henry VIII. The 16th Century herbalist, Gerard states: “The Arabians and other Physitionssucceeding, do write, that Rosemary comforteth the braine, the memorie, the inward senses, and restoreth speech unto them that are posesed with the dumbe palsie”. Napoleon Bonaparte’s Eaude Cologne was made with rosemary. It was also the symbol of remembrance. A sprig of rosemary was often placed in the hands of the deceased at funerals.
Medicinal Uses
Don’t try this at home! Rosemary is an aromatic, restorative herb. It can help stimulate the liver and gall bladder. It can improve digestion. It can be used externally as an essential oil massage oil or as a salve for rheumatism, arthritis, neuralgia, muscular injuries, wounds and dandruff. Be careful using internally on pregnant women.
Culinary, Beauty and Dyes
Fresh or dried leaves are used to flavor meats, soups and stews. Rosemary is very popular with lamb and potatoes. Very small amounts can be used in baked goods like biscuits or as an extra flavor in jams. Fresh leaves can be steeped in oil or vinegar to flavor salads and make pretty gifts. In addition to culinary uses, rosemary can be used to create wreaths, garland, bath/beauty and potpourri products. As a dye plant, rosemary produces a yellow-green color.
Tips:
• Use rosemary fresh or dried in recipes. Finely chopped is preferred if using dried.
• Harvest rosemary in late summer or early fall, ideally just before flowering.
• Hang or screen dry, or freeze leaves in an airtight container.
• Pungent rosemary compliments poultry, fish, lamb, and beef as well as tomatoes, cheese, eggs, potatoes, squash, soup and salad dressings.
• Use woody stems for kabob skewers or fire starters.
Recipes
Herb Roasted Garlic
2 heads garlic
4 teaspoons olive oil
1 ½ teaspoons honey
1½ teaspoons fresh basil (½ teaspoon dried)
1½ teaspoons fresh rosemary (½ teaspoon dried)
Slice the garlic heads in half horizontally. Drizzle 1 teaspoon olive oil on exposed cloves then drizzle with ½ teaspoon honey. Sprinkle with herbs. Wrap garlic in aluminum foil and bake for about 45 minutes, or until soft. Spread on whole grain crackers or pita triangles.
Ed Pierzynski, HSA South Jersey Unit
The Herb Society of America’s Essential Guide to Growing and Cooking with Herbs
