Rosmarinus officinalis ‘Arp’

Released by the National Arboretum as the most cold hardy variety, this perennial culinary herb is tough drought tolerant and not eaten by deer and rabbits. It was discovered in Arp, TX (near Tyler) by Madalene Hill back in 1972. Arp Rosemary has pale blue flowers in spring that show off well against its gray green leaves on upright stems. The plant has a lemony pine-like scent and is used to flavor lamb, pork, and beef. Sun and good drainage are important to growing it well. Some gardeners train it into a hedge, and it will also survive well indoors if given lots of light. The woody stems of rosemary can be used to skewer meats and vegetables to infuse them with flavor.