Rosmarinus o. 'Arp' - Arp Rosemary

Regarded as the most hardy rosemary cultivar, originally found in Arp Texas in 1972; thick resinous gray green leaves with a lemony scent and an open growth habit; an herb widely used in cooking, and an excellent choice for topiaries

Height: 4 feet. Spread: 5 feet. Sun: full sun. Hardiness zone: (annual).

Planting and growing

Arp Rosemary will grow to be about 4 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 5 feet. Although it's not a true annual, this plant can be expected to behave as an annual in our climate if left outdoors over the winter, usually needing replacement the following year. As such, gardeners should take into consideration that it will perform differently than it would in its native habitat.

This plant is quite ornamental as well as edible, and is as much at home in a landscape or flower garden as it is in a designated herb garden. It should only be grown in full sunlight. It prefers dry to average moisture levels with very well-drained soil, and will often die in standing water. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. Consider applying a thick mulch around the root zone in winter to protect it in exposed locations or colder microclimates. This is a selected variety of a species not originally from North America.

Photo courtesy of NetPS Plant Finder.