Rosemary
| Additional Flower Resources Flower Power Flowering Shrubs |
One only need read a few older biology texts to learn that the plant has been associated with funerals, weddings and other types of remembrances, along with being used as an herbal for teas, foods and cosmetics.
Folkark's 1884 edition of Plant Lore, Legends and Lyrics starts its narrative about the plant by saying, "Rosmarinus, the botanical name of Rosemary, signifies the "dew of the sea," and has been applied to the plant on account of its fondness for the sea-shore. Formerly it was called Rosmarinus coronarius because of its use in chaplets and garlands, with which the principal guests at feasts were crowned."
It's native to the Mediterranean area, and because it grows to three feet in height or more, it is a suitable plant for demarcating the back of any garden area in the warm winter climates of the West Coast and Southeast.
As a member of the mint family, rosemary's draw as an herb remains ever popular. With the aid of some local Washington D.C. students, First Lady Michelle Obama planted some rosemary in the White House garden.
Use it as a healthy salt substitute to enhance the flavor of many meals, including chicken and vegetables such as carrots and squash.
© 2009 Patricia A. Michaels