DESCIPTION: Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is a woody, perennial herb with fragrant, evergreen, needle-like leaves. It is a member of the mint family Lamiaceae, which also includes many other herbs. The name rosemary derives from the Latin name rosmarinus, or "dew of the sea". Because in many locations it needs no other water than the humidity carried by the sea breeze to live; it is native to the Mediterranean region. The leaves are evergreen, 0.8 to1.6 inches long and .4 inches broad, green above, and white below with dense short woolly hair. Flowering, very common in a mature and healthy specimens and generally occurs in summer. Its flower colors are variable, being white, pink, purple, or blue. Dried leaves are frequently in Mediterranean cuisine. When burned, they give off a distinct mustard smell, as well as a smell similar to that of burning wood, which can be used to flavor foods while barbecuing. | |
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