Cumberland Rosemary
Conradina verticillata
Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae
What it is like
Conradina verticillata is a deciduous Shrub growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.3
Where it is found
Not known
South-eastern N. America - Tennessee.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
The leaves have a strong pleasant scent, reminiscent of rosemary, and are used as a rosemary substitute as a flavouring in cooking.
Condiment: the various plants that are used as flavourings, either as herbs, spices or condiments.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Requires a light soil and a very sunny position. This species is not hardy in the colder areas of the country, it tolerates temperatures down to between -5 and -10°c. This is an endangered species in the wild.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Cuttings of new shoots in spring in a frame.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Shrub
Hardiness: 6-9
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Moist