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Time of India
3 days ago
- General
- Time of India
Rosemary plant: How to spot the real one from look-alikes
If you've ever been at a farmers' market, garden centre, or even your aunt's backyard, you've probably seen what looks like rosemary. But here's the thing, Mother Nature likes to play tricks. Several plants look suspiciously like rosemary, and unless you know what you're looking for, you could end up sniffing (or cooking with) the wrong herb. Step one: Get to know the shape and size Real rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is a woody perennial herb that looks like a tiny pine tree got a haircut. Its leaves are needle-like but not sharp, and they grow in dense clusters along upright, woody stems. Height: Usually 1–3 feet when grown in pots, but in the ground it can get up to 4–5 feet tall. Stems: Woody at the base, greener near the tips. Leaves: Narrow, about an inch long, dark green on top, with a silvery-white underside. If the plant in question has floppy stems, rounded leaves, or bright green all the way through, it's probably not rosemary. Step two: Trust your nose This is the giveaway. Rosemary smells… well, like rosemary: strong, fresh, piney, with a hint of lemon and camphor. It's unmistakable once you've sniffed the real thing. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Use an AI Writing Tool That Actually Understands Your Voice Grammarly Install Now Undo A quick tip: rub the leaves gently between your fingers. If the scent doesn't explode into that classic rosemary aroma, you're holding an imposter. Plants that often get mistaken for rosemary—like Russian sage or lavender—smell different. Russian sage has a softer, more sage-like aroma. Lavender, of course, smells floral, not savory. Step three: Check the color contrast One of rosemary's unique features is that two-tone leaf. The top side is dark, almost forest green, while the underside is pale and silvery, thanks to tiny hairs. This contrast is much more pronounced in rosemary than in most look-alike plants. If your 'rosemary' has leaves that are the exact same shade on both sides—proceed with suspicion. Step four: Notice the flowers (if it's blooming) Rosemary flowers are small, delicate, and usually pale blue to purple. They pop up in late winter or spring (though some varieties flower more than once a year). Impostors like lavender have much bigger, more fragrant blooms, while Russian sage has taller, airy flower spikes. Common Rosemary impostors and how to bust them Let's play plant detective and meet rosemary's top look-alikes. Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) Taller, with softer, more feathery leaves. Light purple flowers in tall spikes. Smells herby but not piney. Lavender (Lavandula spp.) Leaves are often more grey-green and softer. Strong floral aroma (amazing, but definitely not rosemary). Taller flower stalks. Bog Sage (Salvia uliginosa) Bright blue flowers. More upright and less woody. Mild scent. Bonus tips for buying the right rosemary If you're buying fresh rosemary sprigs in the supermarket or farmers' market in the US look for: Firm, upright stems (not floppy). Strong fragrance. No yellowing or dried-out tips. If you're buying a potted rosemary plant for your garden or windowsill: Check the label for Rosmarinus officinalis. Avoid plants that look leggy or sparse, they might be stressed or mislabeled. Give the leaves a sniff before you hand over your cash. Why you really want the real thing Besides the fact that fake rosemary just won't taste right, rosemary has unique oils, like cineole and camphor, that give it its distinctive flavor and potential health benefits. It's brilliant for seasoning roasted potatoes, chicken, lamb, bread, and even cocktails. If you mistakenly grab Russian sage, your potatoes will taste… well, earthy and weird. And lavender? Let's just say your lamb chops will taste like soap. Spotting the right rosemary isn't rocket science, it's all about looking closely, smelling deeply, and trusting your senses. Once you've locked in that scent and leaf pattern, you'll never be fooled again. So next time you're at the garden center, channel your inner herb detective. This content is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional botanical advice. Plant identification can vary based on growing conditions and regional varieties. Always consult a qualified horticulturist or reliable plant guide before consuming or using any herb. "Get the latest news updates on Times of India, including reviews of the movie Coolie and War 2 ."
Time of India
04-06-2025
- General
- Time of India
Hydrangeas are out, and these stunning, low-maintenance plants are taking over
Hydrangeas , once a staple in many gardens for their vibrant blooms and lush foliage, are declining in popularity among gardeners. This shift is primarily attributed to the challenges posed by changing climate conditions and the plant's specific care requirements. One of the primary concerns is the hydrangea's sensitivity to extreme weather. In regions experiencing hotter, drier summers, hydrangeas often struggle to thrive. Their large leaves and blooms are prone to wilting under intense sun and heat, and they require frequent watering to maintain their appearance. This high water demand is viewed as unsustainable, especially in areas facing water restrictions or drought conditions. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Join new Free to Play WWII MMO War Thunder War Thunder Play Now Soil conditions also play a crucial role in the health of hydrangeas. They prefer well-draining, moisture-retentive soil. Inadequate soil conditions can lead to root rot or poor growth, making them less appealing to gardeners seeking low-maintenance plants . Furthermore, hydrangeas require careful placement in the garden. They do best in locations with morning sun and afternoon shade. Too much sun can scorch their leaves, while too much shade can inhibit blooming. This need for specific light conditions can limit their placement options in a garden. Live Events In response to these challenges, many gardeners are turning to alternative plants that are more resilient and easier to care for. Perennials like coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, and Russian sage are gaining popularity. These plants are known for their drought tolerance, ability to thrive in various soil types, and minimal maintenance requirements. The trend can be seen as a broader shift in gardening practices, where people prioritize sustainability and adaptability. Gardeners are seeking plants that can withstand the challenges of a changing climate while still providing aesthetic appeal. FAQs What does hydrangea symbolize? Hydrangeas symbolize various emotions, including heartfelt emotion, gratitude, abundance, and apology. In Japanese culture, they represent sincere feelings and remorse, while different colors convey specific meanings: blue for apology and serenity, pink for love and affection, and white for purity and grace. Are hydrangeas expensive? Hydrangea is moderately priced, depending on type and size. Smaller or common shrubs start around $20 to $30, while mature or specialty varieties can range from $40 up to $140 or more. For example, Proven Winners® Limelight Hydrangea Trees start at about $140, while popular reblooming varieties like Endless Summer® begin at about $30. Where do hydrangeas grow best? Hydrangeas grow best in moist, well-drained, organic-rich soil with good drainage. They prefer locations with morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in warmer climates. In cooler regions, they can tolerate more sun. Avoid planting near trees or windy, exposed spots to ensure healthy growth and abundant blooms.
