There are two common types - the erect shrub and also a creeping or prostrate rosemary. This ash-colored evergreen shrub has a pungent, pinelike fragrance. It has scaly bark and opposite, narrow, leathery leaves, which are thick and dark green on the top and downy white underneath. Prominent veins run down the middle of the leaves and the margins roll down. The many violet-blue flowers, produced in May, are a particularly attractive feature.
Some varieties also produce lavender to pink blooms.
This herb grows well in pots, although it has a massive root system and will become root bound and die if left in the container too long. If planted in the ground this shrub will become as tall as 6 feet and 3-4 feet in diameter. Rosemary and sage do well planted next to or near each other, as they seem to stimulate each other. If fresh rosemary is probably maintained it will grow in the Florida garden or yard year round. Sprigs can then be clipped and used as needed.