Rosmarinus officinalis 'Tuscan Blue'

Rosmarinus officinalis ‘Tuscan Blue’

One of the toughest evergreen shrubs in the garden, Rosemary officinalis ‘Tuscan Blue’ is an excellent choice for our Mediterranean climate. It is an upright Rosemary that grows 6-7 feet tall and 2-4 feet wide, with deep blue flowers blooming in winter and spring. Its mature height makes it a good choice as a screen or background plant, however it can tolerate light pruning to keep its height in check. It is a favorite among chefs for its aromatic leaves that can used to flavor various foods such as stuffing and roasted meats. The strong stems of ‘Tuscan Blue’ make an excellent skewer for marinated shish kabobs. Yum!

This beautiful Rosemary requires little water once established (a deep watering once every few weeks should suffice). It can handle full sun, hot temperatures, wind and salt spray, but cannot tolerate over-watering and poor-draining soil. Its Sunset Western Clime Zones are 4-24, and it is hardy to about 15°F. The flowers attract hummingbirds, butterflies and bees, however rabbits and deer don’t like the taste of the leaves and will leave it alone.

Have you ever wondered how Rosemary got its name? Well, legend says that the Virgin Mary stopped to rest and laid her blue cloak over a white-blossomed bush. When she lifted her cloak the flowers had turned blue. Thus, the shrub then became known as the “Rose of Mary”

We are growing Rosemary officinalis ‘Tuscan Blue’ in one gallon containers. Give us a call, “Like” us on Facebook and check out our website at www.clearwatercolor.com to see photos of these and many more plants that we are growing.