Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is one of my favorite Christmas plants. This dense, spiky leaf, grayish-green evergreen reminds me of a miniature Christmas tree.
It can be decorated at this time of year to use as a center piece on your dining table.
There are several different cultivars of this herb available such as: Rosmarinus officinalis ‘Albus’ has white flowers; Rosmarinus officinalis ‘Benenden Blue’ has bright blue flowers; Rosmarinus officinalis ‘Roseus’ has a pink flower; and Rosmariunus officinalis ‘Severn Sea’ has brilliant blue flowers.
In Delaware, most cultivars are tender and must be brought in doors when the warm temperatures of summer end. However, there are two cultivars that are hardy; these are ‘Arp’ and ‘Very Oily.’
There are many stories and legends that have been told about the rosemary plant through the centuries. I thought for this holiday season I would share some of these with you.
Rosemary was also known as the Holy Herb and/or Rose of Mary by the Greeks. The Greeks told this legend. One day the Holy family was fleeing from Herod’s soldiers and the weary Virgin Mary needed to rest.
They came upon a grove of fragrant shiny leafed shrubs with white flowers. Mary gently placed her heavenly blue cloak over these rosemary bushes to dry and when it was removed the flowers had turned blue in her honor. This blue is the same color of blossoms on several cultivars of rosemary.
Another story is that a Rosemary plant will not grow any taller than six feet the believed adult height of Jesus Christ. After 33 years, (Christ’s age at the crucifixion) a Rosemary bush will grow in width but not in height.
It is also the herb associated with remembrance, love, and friendship. One tale I read took place in old England. This was that sweethearts would exchange a branch of rosemary when they parted, lest they be forgotten.
In the fable, Sleeping Beauty, rosemary was the herb tea used but failed to awaken the beautiful sleeping princess.
Besides all of these legends and stories associated with rosemary, this is truly one of the best culinary herbs. It is great for seasoning stews, sauces, soups, lamb, chicken, vegetable dishes, and jellies.
To conclude, next time you are thinking about giving a holiday plant to someone special, why not give this unique herb plant that represents love, friendship, loyalty and remembrance. Have a happy and memorable holiday!
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