Blue and White Rosemary Duo

The Blue and White Rosemary Duo consists of two different varieties of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) that will enliven your garden or terrace with their aromatic evergreen foliage and small honey-producing flowers. These shrubby perennial plants, known for their hardiness and drought resistance, bloom in spring and summer, or in spring and autumn in Mediterranean climates. They require well-drained soil and full sun exposure. You can use their foliage to flavour your grilled dishes and all Mediterranean cuisine.

The duo consists of:

1 Rosmarinus officinalis: common rosemary reaching 1.50 m in height with a bushy habit. Its small flowers are blue, and its very fragrant dark green foliage is ideal for cooking.

1 Rosmarinus officinalis 'Albiflorus': a rare variety of rosemary with pure white flowers. It maintains a compact habit of about 1 m in height.

The rosemarys in this duo should be planted in spring in cool climates or in early autumn in dry and warm climates. Plant them in well-drained, stony soil, preferably in a rock garden or raised bed to spare the roots from stagnant moisture which is harmful to them. In a border, at the front, or even in a pot, place the Rosmarinus officinalis, taller, in the background, and its 'Albiflorus' form at the front. Space the young plants 50 cm to 70 cm apart, aiming for about 3 plants per m², to allow good air circulation and prevent diseases.

Harvest rosemary leaves in spring or summer, when the plants are in full growth and their foliage is the most aromatic. Take the young shoots by cutting just above a leaf cluster to encourage new branching. Used fresh or dried, rosemary sprigs add an intense and fragrant flavour to a variety of dishes: roasts, marinades, soups, and even desserts. Rosmarinus officinalis, with its resinous and woody notes, is perfect for grilled meats, while its 'Albiflorus' form, being milder, pairs well with fish and vegetables.

Store the dried sprigs in a dry, dark place to preserve their aroma throughout the year.

To create a harmonious bed, combine the Blue and White Rosemary Duo with lavenders, planted at the front for a smooth transition between different heights. Add a few feet of sage Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' with intense purple spikes, mixed with the rosemary to enrich the colour palette. In the background, the tall spikes of Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Blue Steel' (Russian sage) with its silver-blue will harmonise perfectly with the rosemary. Plan for 5 lavender plants, 4 Perovskia, and 3 sage for a balanced composition.