Native to Mediterranean shores, rosemary is a dense, evergreen shrub with needlelike leaves. The leaves retain their pungency when dried and have a warm and peppery aroma with a slightly bitter and resinous taste of pine and camphor. Crushing or chopping dried rosemary leaves before using them brings out the best flavor.

Rosemary has protective antiseptic and antioxidant properties that kill bacteria and fight inflammation, and ancients used the leaves to wrap and preserve meats. Rosemary is still a favorite culinary herb for seasoning grilled or roasted meats and is also commonly added to marinades, crackers, breads, and preserves.

Rosemary is used in many hair, skin care, and aromatherapy products, and its distinctive scent is associated with improved memory and cognition. Rosemary is also a symbol of love, loyalty, and remembrance and has historically been included in both funeral rituals and marriage ceremonies.