False rosemary (Conradina canescens)

False rosemary

The fragrant flowers of false rosemary have a mint-like odor that is a welcome addition to any garden. It can bloom any time, although spring to fall blooms are most common. In addition, false rosemary is highly attractive to pollinator insects, especially bees.

Scientific classification

Species

False rosemary (Conradina canescens)

Mints plantains olives and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Summer, Fall, Late winter

Bloom Time

61 cm to 1.2 m

Plant Height

60 cm to 1.2 m

Spread

Green, Red, Brown, Burgundy

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

Spring, Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Images of False rosemary

Quickly Identify False rosemary

Oppositely arranged, needle-like leaves with a gray-green hue and a minty fragrance.

Lavender, blue, or white two-lipped flowers with distinctive dark spots, about 0.5 inches (1.27 cm) long.

Small fruit consisting of tetrad nutlets with a hard, brown texture and slightly wrinkled surface.

Pubescent stem with fine hairs, ranging from reddish-brown to green, and irregular branching pattern.

Overall bushy appearance with fragrant foliage and flowers, reaching a few feet in height.

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for False rosemary

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: False rosemary thrives in well-drained soils, prefers drier conditions, and requires watering every two weeks. It grows best outdoors in full sun, necessitating adjusted watering during the growing season to counter increased evaporation.

Fertilize: Apply balanced fertilizer in spring for false rosemary, fertilizing monthly during growth and bi-annually in winter. Avoid over-fertilization and ensure proper soil drainage, as false rosemary is sensitive to moisture. Use granular or liquid forms, and water thoroughly after fertilization for even nutrient distribution.

Pruning: False rosemary features aromatic, needle-like leaves and lavender flowers. Light pruning in late spring post-flowering promotes healthy growth. Remove dead branches and trim new growth for denser foliage and blooms. Avoid heavy pruning to prevent hindering flowering and maintain a bushier appearance.

Propagation: Native to the southeastern United States, false rosemary is a fragrant, evergreen shrub with needle-like leaves and purplish flowers. Propagate false rosemary using healthy, semi-hardwood cuttings treated with rooting hormone in well-draining soil, ensuring consistent moisture and partial sunlight for successful root establishment.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free