Barbeque Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Barbeque Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus, formerly Rosmarinus officinalis) is a fragrant culinary herb selected for its sturdy, upright stems and aromatic evergreen foliage. Its robust woody stems are ideal for stripping the lower leaves and using as natural skewers for grilling vegetables, meats, seafood, and kebabs, adding a subtle rosemary flavour while infusing foods with its signature herbal aroma.

The narrow, needle-like grey-green leaves are packed with essential oils, making them a favourite for seasoning roasted potatoes, chicken, lamb, beef, vegetables, breads, soups, sauces, and marinades. In addition to its culinary value, Barbeque Rosemary is an attractive ornamental herb that develops a compact, upright form and may produce delicate pale blue flowers that attract bees and other pollinators.

This heat-loving Mediterranean herb thrives in sunny locations with excellent drainage and is highly drought tolerant once established. It performs beautifully in herb gardens, raised beds, decorative containers, patio planters, and mixed edible landscapes, where its fragrant foliage provides year-round interest in mild climates.

In Alberta, Barbeque Rosemary is typically grown as an annual outdoors or can be overwintered indoors in a bright location. It is an excellent choice for gardeners who enjoy cooking with fresh herbs throughout the growing season.