Description
Rosemary SimplyHerbs (Rosmarinus officinalis) is a compact, fast-growing culinary herb renowned for its intensely aromatic, needle-like leaves and upright, bushy habit. Bred for vigorous growth and early harvesting, this variety is ideal for containers, kitchen gardens, and small-space gardening. It offers a refined, savoury flavour perfect for roasts, marinades, breads, and herbal teas.
Adapted to South African conditions, Rosemary SimplyHerbs thrives in full sun and tolerates heat and drought once established. It prefers well-drained, sandy to loamy soils and grows best in Mediterranean-like climates, such as those found in the Western Cape and interior provinces. This variety reaches up to 30–50 cm in height, making it an excellent ornamental-edible addition to herb beds or patio containers.
With its high oil content, ease of care, and strong garden performance, Rosemary SimplyHerbs is a must-have perennial herb for flavour and function in the South African garden.
Benefits
Pollinator & Pest
- Its strong aroma repels pests such as mosquitoes, cabbage moths, and carrot flies.
- Attracts bees and hoverflies, which improve pollination in vegetable and herb gardens.
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Can help mask the scent of more vulnerable crops, reducing insect damage.
Compact and Ornamental
- Perfect for containers, patios, windowsills, and borders.
- Evergreen foliage adds year-round visual appeal and structure to herb gardens.
- Can be pruned into decorative shapes or mini hedges.
Nutritional and Medicinal
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Rich in antioxidants like carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid – supports immune function and cellular health.
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Contains anti-inflammatory compounds used to relieve joint pain and muscle tension.
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Used in herbal teas to aid digestion, improve memory, and reduce stress.
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Antimicrobial properties make it effective for natural skincare and scalp health.
Health and Aromatherapy
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Aromatic oils promote mental clarity, concentration, and stress reduction.
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Inhalation or diffusion may ease respiratory issues and fatigue.
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Topical rosemary oil is used to stimulate circulation and support hair growth.
How To Use
Rosemary SimplyHerbs flourishes under the following conditions:
- Season: Spring to Early Autumn
- Temperature: 16-30°C
- Germinate: 14-21 days
- Depth: 3-5 mm
- Spacing: 30x45 cm
- Harvest: 90-120 days
- Height: 30-50 cm
- Flowering Season: Late spring to mid-summer
- Exposure: Full sun (6-8+ hours daily)
Ideal Growing Environment
- Well-drained sandy or loamy soil; pH 6.0–7.5. Avoid soggy conditions – add gravel to pots or soil to enhance drainage.
- Low water needs; water deeply but infrequently. Drought-tolerant once established.
- Minimal feeding required. Apply compost or slow-release organic fertiliser annually in spring.
- Suited for warm, dry regions; tolerates light frost once mature.
- Performs best in low to moderate humidity (40–60%). Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
- Generally pest-resistant due to aromatic oils; may occasionally attract spittlebugs or aphids, easily managed organically.
- Ideal for pots, rock gardens, dry herb spirals, borders, or even as a low hedge.
- Benefits from being planted alongside cabbage, beans, carrots, sage, thyme, lavender, and oregano.
- Intercropping: Pair with tomatoes, capsicums, broccoli, or strawberries to deter pests.
- Crop Rotation: Use as companions or rotate after heavy feeders. Perennials (rosemary, thyme, lavender) stay in place longer.
- Soil Rejuvenation: Enhance soil microbes; use as borders between cycles.
- Avoid planting with basil (due to differing moisture needs) and overly thirsty vegetables like cucumbers.
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