Prostrate rosemary and upright rosemary are two different types of the same plant, Rosmarinus officinalis. The main difference between them lies in their growth habit and appearance.
Upright rosemary, also known as shrub rosemary, grows in an upright manner, forming a bushy and compact shape. It can reach a height of up to 4 feet and has a dense foliage of needle-like leaves. The branches of upright rosemary are erect and tend to grow vertically.
On the other hand, prostrate rosemary, also referred to as creeping rosemary or trailing rosemary, has a cascading growth habit. It spreads horizontally and can trail down slopes or spill over walls. Prostrate rosemary typically grows to a height of 1 to 2 feet, but its branches can extend much farther horizontally.
Both types of rosemary have the same aromatic foliage and small, bluish-purple flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. They also share similar care requirements and can thrive in sunny and well-draining soil.
In terms of care, rosemary is a relatively low-maintenance plant once it is established. It is drought-tolerant and prefers infrequent, deep watering rather than frequent shallow watering. This helps promote deep root growth and overall plant health. It is important to allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
Pruning is also an essential part of rosemary care, regardless of whether it is upright or prostrate. Regular pruning helps maintain the desired shape, encourages bushier growth, and prevents the plant from becoming woody and sparse. Pruning can be done in early spring before new growth starts or after the plant has finished flowering.
When it comes to landscape design, the choice between prostrate and upright rosemary depends on the desired effect. Upright rosemary works well as a focal point in a garden bed or as a hedge, providing structure and height. Its vertical growth can add a sense of formality to the landscape.
On the other hand, prostrate rosemary is excellent for cascading over walls, spilling down slopes, or softening the edges of pathways. Its trailing branches create a more informal and relaxed look. It can also be useful in rock gardens or as ground cover to prevent erosion.
In my personal experience, I have used both upright and prostrate rosemary in various landscaping projects. I have found that they complement each other well and can be used together to create a visually interesting and functional garden design. The contrast between the vertical and horizontal growth habits adds depth and dimension to the overall landscape.
Prostrate rosemary and upright rosemary are not the same, but rather different variations of the same plant. They differ in their growth habit and appearance, with upright rosemary growing vertically and forming a compact bush, while prostrate rosemary spreads horizontally and cascades down slopes or walls. Both types require similar care, including occasional deep watering and regular pruning. The choice between them depends on the desired landscape design and the specific purpose they serve in the garden.
