Rosemary Tuscan Blue: Elegant Culinary Herb with Intense Flavor
Rosemary ‘Tuscan Blue’ is a striking variety of the classic Mediterranean herb, known for its upright growth habit and deep blue flowers. This tender perennial matures in about 6-8 months, reaching impressive heights of 5-7 feet when grown outdoors in ideal conditions. Its glossy green foliage and aromatic qualities make it a standout choice for both ornamental and culinary purposes.
Prized for its robust flavor profile, Tuscan Blue rosemary enhances a wide range of Mediterranean dishes. Its strongly aromatic, needle-like leaves offer a more intense taste compared to other varieties, making it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike. The plant’s tall, upright form also makes it an excellent choice for hedging or as a focal point in herb gardens.
Tuscan Blue rosemary thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, preferring a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. It’s a slow-growing plant that can spread 2-4 feet wide, requiring 24-48 inches of spacing between plants. This variety is more cold-hardy than most, surviving temperatures down to 15°F (-9°C), making it suitable for USDA zones 8-11.
Growing Success Tips:
- Provide 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth
- Allow soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape and promote bushiness
- Fertilize sparingly, twice a year in early spring and mid-summer
Tuscan Blue rosemary is a versatile and rewarding addition to any garden, offering both culinary and ornamental value. Its low maintenance requirements and drought tolerance make it an excellent choice for waterwise gardens and Mediterranean-style landscapes.
For best results, plant Tuscan Blue rosemary in a sheltered location protected from harsh winds.
Product Features
- Mature height: 5-7 feet (150-180 cm)
- Spread: 2-4 feet (60-120 cm)
- Flower color: Deep blue to violet
- Bloom time: Winter through spring
- Hardiness: USDA zones 8-11
- Exposure: Full sun
- Soil type: Well-drained, sandy or loamy
- Water needs: Low to average
Key Benefits
- Intense flavor for culinary use
- Attractive upright growth habit
- Drought and deer resistant
- Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies
