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rosmarinus horizontalis

Rosmarinus horizontalis, also known as Rosmarinus prostratus or Prostrate Rosemary, is a wonderfully versatile, evergreen groundcover that brings both beauty and utility to New Zealand gardens. Beloved for its low, spreading habit and aromatic foliage, rosmarinus horizontalis is a superb choice for those looking to create sweeping drifts of silvery-green colour and soft blue flowers that attract pollinators. Perfect for spilling over retaining walls, softening the edges of pathways, or acting as a living mulch in both formal and informal gardens, this hardy rosemary variety is as decorative as it is practical, all while remaining remarkably drought-tolerant once established.

Rosmarinus prostratus (Creeping Rosemary)

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Creeping Rosemary, Prostrate Rosemary

Rosmarinus prostratus, commonly called Prostrate Rosemary, is a hardy, low-growing shrub with aromatic green foliage and masses of blue flowers from late winter through spring. Its trailing habit makes it perfect for cascading over walls, covering banks, or spilling from pots. Hardy and drought-tolerant once established, it thrives in sunny, well-drained sites across New Zealand. Combining ornamental appeal with culinary use, Prostrate Rosemary is a versatile, low-maintenance choice for gardens and landscaping.

Rosmarinus prostrata trailing over a bank.
  • Suited to regions:
    All regions
  • Plant type:
    Groundcover Plants
  • Height:
    30 cm
  • Spread:
    75 cm
  • Flowering time:
    Spring
  • Tolerances:
    Coastal, Hardy
  • Garden uses:
    Borders, Containers, Culinary, Ground covering, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Pool areas
  • Garden styles:
    Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
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Rosmarinus prostratus (Creeping Rosemary)

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Distinctive Features of Prostrate Rosemary

What makes rosmarinus horizontalis stand out among other rosemary plants is its cascading, low-growing nature. Unlike the upright forms, Prostrate Rosemary hugs the ground, typically growing only 30-50 cm tall while spreading up to 1.5 metres wide. Its narrow leaves release a classic rosemary fragrance when brushed or crushed, adding a sensory element to borders and rockeries. In late winter through spring, delicate sky-blue flowers blanket the plant, making it a delightful feature for both bees and garden enthusiasts alike.

How to Grow Rosmarinus Horizontalis

Rosmarinus horizontalis thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, preferring positions with plenty of airflow to keep foliage healthy. It is highly tolerant of dry conditions and coastal winds, making it ideal for New Zealand's variable climates. Once established, rosmarinus horizontalis is very low maintenance—simply trim back after flowering to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage dense growth. This plant is also deer-resistant and rarely troubled by pests, adding to its appeal for easy-care gardens.

Landscape Uses and Companion Plants

The trailing nature of rosmarinus horizontalis opens up a range of landscape uses. Plant it on banks for soil erosion control, cascade it over retaining walls, or allow it to fill gaps between pavers for a Mediterranean-inspired look. It pairs beautifully with other drought-tolerant groundcovers such as Pimelea prostrata Anatoki Blue, Vinca major Variegata (Greater Periwinkle Plant), and Ceanothus 'Emily Brown' for a lush, textured planting scheme.

For variety, consider planting alongside other rosemary cultivars like Rosmarinus 'Blue Lagoon', Rosmarinus 'Lockwood de Forest' (Creeping Rosemary), or the upright Rosmarinus officinalis. Each offers slightly different growth habits and flower shades, letting you create a collection of aromatic and attractive herbs.

Culinary and Garden Benefits

Like all rosemary, rosmarinus horizontalis is edible and can be used in the kitchen to flavour roasted meats, vegetables, and breads. Its trailing stems are easy to harvest and perfect for fresh use or drying. In the garden, it not only looks lovely but also deters some pest insects and supports local pollinators, increasing the health and vibrancy of your outdoor spaces.

Related Plants and Alternatives

If you love the spreading form of rosmarinus horizontalis, you might also enjoy ground-hugging evergreens like Abies koreana Green Carpet or seasonal bloomers such as Erica carnea Springwood Pink (Winter Heath). For those looking for additional rosemary options, upright growers like Rosmarinus 'Tuscan Blue' or uniquely coloured Rosmarinus 'Mozart' make excellent companions.

Introduce rosmarinus horizontalis to your landscape and discover why it remains a top pick for New Zealand gardeners seeking robust, fragrant, and beautiful groundcover solutions.


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