By Emily How, Horticulture agent

NDSU Extension – Ward County

Rosemary is one of my favorite herbs. It tastes, smells and looks good. This woody shrub is great for outdoor herb gardens. Able to withstand periods of high heat and drought, it is one of the easier plants to grow. Rosemary also does well indoors, making it a great, versatile houseplant.

Rosemary originates from the hilly regions along the coast of the Mediterranean, Portugal and Spain. In its native habitat, rosemary can reach 4 to 6 feet high and almost 4 feet wide. Historically, the herb was used at funerals and weddings as symbols of remembrance and fidelity. Rosemary even made it into several of Shakespeare’s works. Today, it is primarily used to enhance food flavors, for landscaping and for crafts.

Because the rosemary plant is only hardy to 20 degrees Fahrenheit, North Dakotans typically only see the needle-looking sprigs of this woody perennial. When kept inside, rosemary may produce charming blue, pink or white flowers in late winter or early spring.

Growing rosemary indoors is straightforward. Choose a pot that is large enough for your plant. If you are relocating the plant from an outdoor herb garden to an indoor houseplant, the pot that you select may need to be bigger than a typical houseplant-sized pot. The pot should also be deep enough to accommodate the plant’s deep roots. Pot material is important as well; clay or terracotta pots are best as they can help prevent overwatering. Use well-draining potting soil or a sandy blend of soil to ensure that the roots receive adequate air and to prevent waterlogging the plant. Root rot is a major issue with growing rosemary inside. Water the plant sparingly and only when the soil is dry.

Rosemary requires full sun, which means it needs around eight hours of direct sunlight. As a houseplant, the potted rosemary should be placed in a south-facing window or under grow lights for sufficient lighting. If grow lights are used, plants typically need more time in the light. Rosemary also prefers humid climates, something North Dakota winters lack. To combat this problem, place the pot on a shallow tray filled with rocks and some water. As the water evaporates, it will increase the humidity needed by the plant.

Need more reasons other than flavor and smell to grow a rosemary plant indoors? It is also nontoxic to pets and children and can be shaped into a topiary, or a distinct shape, adding a creative decorative element to your home.

NDSU Agriculture Communication – Dec. 9, 2025

Source: Emily How, 701-857-6444, emily.how@ndsu.edu

Editor: Dominic Erickson, 701-231-5546, dominic.erickson@ndsu.edu