Rosemary

Rosemarinus officinalis

Labiatae - Mint Family

Rosemary has a powerful, exotic scent. Its fragrance has been enjoyed for centuries in culinary, ornamental, and cosmetic venues. Napolean, a famous French General, drank rosemary water to sweeten his breath. His wife, Josephine, requested that he wash in rosemary water before entering her bedchamber. Reportedly, he used 162 bottles of it in the first three months of marriage.

Rosemary is known as the herb of fidelity, love, and remembrance. An old English custom is for a bride to give rosemary to the groom on the morning of the wedding to ensure love and loyalty. Interestingly, in Medieval England, a rosemary plant growing outside a home was a sign that a woman ruled the household. Husbands had to destroy the plant to dispel such rumors.

Today, as in ancient times, rosemary is a popular culinary herb. It can be used to flavor meat dishes, stews, vinegar, herbal butters, bread, and vegetables.

Rosemary grows best in full sunlight and in well-drained soil. The seed is slow to germinate, but it can be grown easily from root cuttings. Where temperatures fall below 0 degrees Fahrenheit (-20 degrees Celsius), it should be brought indoors during the winter.

Rosemary Butter

Beat 1 tablespoon of fresh, minced rosemary or 1 teaspoon of the dried herb into ¼ cup softened butter. Shape as desired. Eat with biscuits, crackers, or toast.