Barbeque Rosemary

Barbeque Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis 'Barbeque')

Barbeque Rosemary is a fast-growing, upright rosemary that pulls double duty as a bold landscape shrub and a go-to culinary herb. Its aromatic, needle-like foliage brings classic rosemary flavor to the kitchen, while the strong, straight stems are ideal for grilling skewers that add extra fragrance as you cook. In the garden, it holds a clean structure that works in beds, borders, and large containers with minimal fuss. If you want an edible evergreen that looks intentional year-round, this variety delivers.

Distinctive Features

This selection is prized for its sturdy, upright habit and thick, straight stems that are especially useful for barbecue skewers. The evergreen foliage is dense, highly aromatic, and flavorful, making it easy to harvest fresh sprigs whenever you need them. In summer, it produces clusters of clear blue to lavender-blue flowers that add seasonal interest and attract pollinators. Mature plants commonly reach about 4 to 6 feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide, and they take well to pruning for a tighter, more formal shape.

Growing Conditions

• Sun: Full sun is best for dense growth, strongest flavor, and best flowering.
• Soil: Well-drained soil is essential, and sandy or rocky soils are ideal.
• Water: Water regularly during establishment, then keep on the drier side, watering during extended drought.
• USDA Zones: Hardy in zones 8 to 10, and often grown as an annual or overwintered in colder zones.
• Mature Size: About 4 to 6 feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Use as a focal point in a sunny bed where the upright evergreen form can anchor the design year-round.
• Culinary Gardens: Plant near the kitchen for easy harvesting of fresh sprigs for cooking and grilling.
• Hedges and Screens: Prune into a narrow hedge or informal screen for edible structure and fragrance.
• Containers: Grow in large pots for patio fragrance, easy harvest access, and simpler winter protection.
• Drought-Tolerant Beds: Add to low-water plantings where evergreen structure and aromatic foliage are valuable.

Low Maintenance Care

• Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering or as needed to shape, and avoid cutting back into old, leafless wood.
• Watering: Let soil dry between waterings once established, since consistently wet soil can cause root issues.
• Fertilizing: Feed sparingly, since overly rich soil can reduce aroma and lead to softer growth.
• Harvesting: Harvest sprigs anytime, taking small amounts regularly to encourage bushier growth.
• Winter Protection: In colder areas, grow in a container and move to a bright, protected space before hard freezes.

Why Choose Barbeque Rosemary?

• Grilling Skewers: Strong, straight stems make flavorful skewers that add fragrance while cooking.
• Excellent Flavor: Aromatic evergreen foliage provides reliable rosemary taste for everyday kitchen use.
• Evergreen Structure: Upright growth adds year-round form to beds, borders, and containers.
• Pollinator Friendly: Blue flowers support bees and other beneficial insects in summer.
• Low Water Needs: Once established, it handles heat and dry periods with straightforward care.

Barbeque Rosemary is an easy choice when you want a plant that earns its keep in both the landscape and the kitchen. Give it sun, sharp drainage, and light pruning, and it will reward you with evergreen structure, fragrant foliage, and summer bloom. Whether you use it as a hedge, a container centerpiece, or a culinary staple by the door, it brings practical value and a clean finish to the garden.