Rosemary is a cherished herb, widely recognized for its distinctive aroma and versatile applications in the garden and kitchen. This evergreen perennial, native to the Mediterranean, boasts needle-like leaves and often produces delicate flowers. While many are familiar with its upright growth habit, rosemary also comes in varieties that exhibit a beautiful trailing or creeping form, making it a popular choice for groundcovers, rock gardens, and cascading over container edges.
Edibility of Trailing Rosemary
All varieties of Rosmarinus officinalis, the common rosemary, are edible, regardless of their physical growth habit. The distinction between “trailing” and “upright” rosemary refers solely to how the plant grows, not to a difference in its chemical composition or edibility. Trailing varieties are the same species as their upright counterparts. From a culinary standpoint, trailing rosemary offers the same aromatic qualities and flavor profile as any other rosemary plant. The “trailing” characteristic simply describes its appearance, remaining a safe and flavorful herb for consumption.
Using Trailing Rosemary in Cooking
Trailing rosemary is a versatile herb for many dishes. Its robust, piney flavor with hints of lemon complements roasted meats such as chicken, lamb, and pork, as well as vegetables like potatoes and carrots. Whole sprigs can be added to stews, soups, or sauces, then removed before serving. Leaves can be stripped from woody stems and finely chopped for recipes. It can also infuse oils and vinegars, or its sturdy stems can be used as skewers for grilling.
The intensity of rosemary’s flavor differs between its fresh and dried forms. Fresh rosemary provides a bold, vibrant, and aromatic quality, ideal for dishes with longer cooking times where its flavor can meld. Dried rosemary, while convenient and longer-lasting, has a more concentrated taste due to the loss of volatile oils during drying. As a general guideline, one teaspoon of dried rosemary is roughly equivalent to one tablespoon of fresh.
Safety and Sourcing Guidelines
Before consuming any rosemary, including trailing varieties, it is important to ensure it is properly cleaned. Thoroughly washing the sprigs under cold running water helps remove dirt, dust, and any potential residues from the plant. It is important to avoid consuming rosemary that has been treated with systemic pesticides or other harmful chemicals, as these substances can be absorbed into the plant’s tissues and cannot be washed off. Plants purchased from ornamental garden centers may sometimes be treated with chemicals not intended for edible crops.
For safe consumption, source rosemary from reputable nurseries that label their plants as food-grade, or grow it yourself in a home garden where you can control the use of chemicals. While rare, some individuals may experience mild allergic reactions to rosemary, so it is advisable to consume it in moderation, especially when trying it for the first time.