Rosmarinus prostratus

About

Rosmarinus prostratus is a woody perennial in the Lamiaceae, placed within the genus Salvia. It produces the aromatic, needle-like foliage associated with plants formerly treated as rosemary and flowers in summer. Flowering occurs from June to September. The species retains a Mediterranean association in botanical accounts.

About the genus

Salvia is the largest genus of plants in the sage family Lamiaceae, with just under 1,000 species of shrubs, herbaceous perennials, and annuals. Within the Lamiaceae, Salvia is part of the tribe Mentheae within the subfamily Nepetoideae. One of several genera commonly referred to as sage, it includes two widely used herbs, Salvia officinalis and Salvia rosmarinus.

Wikipedia contributors, "Salvia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Salvia

In the garden

Rosmarinus prostratus sits within the Lamiaceae and has been grouped into the genus Salvia by recent taxonomic treatments. Historically treated with other rosemary-like species, it is recognised for its woody stems and aromatic, needle-like leaves, and for flowering through the summer months from June to September. Treat Rosmarinus prostratus as you would other Mediterranean-origin, woody Salvias: favour a sunny, well-drained site and avoid waterlogged soils. Planting in gritty or free-draining soils and giving a sunny aspect will reduce the risk of winter root problems in cooler, wetter UK conditions. Established shoots benefit from light formative pruning after the main flowering period to keep the plant within its allotted space and to promote fresh growth on woody stems. In a UK garden it suits rockeries, herb gardens, gravel beds and contained plantings where good drainage and sun are available. It can be grown in containers moved to a sheltered, sunny spot for winter protection where necessary. Prune back the flowering stems after the June–September display to encourage compact, woody regrowth for the following season.

More in the Salvia genus

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