Wanting to add a little fragrance and flare this holiday season? Rosemary is a perfect addition to both your holiday cuisine and decor.

Rosemary, known as Rosmarinus officinalis, is a woody, evergreen perennial herb, meaning that it lives more than two years. It is a native to the Mediterranean region and is a member of the family Lamiaceae, which includes other herbs such as basil, sage, oregano, thyme, lavender and mint.

Rosemary usage dates back to ancient Greek, Roman and Egyptian civilizations, where it was commonly used as a culinary and medicinal herb. Later brought to Britain by Roman armies, it became a popular herb for seasoning and preserving meat.

During the Middle Ages, it was believed whoever smelled rosemary on Christmas Eve would have health and happiness throughout the year; so, people would spread rosemary on the floor and walk on it, allowing it to emit its fragrance in the air. This practice brought about a long traditional use of rosemary in Christmas wreaths and other holiday decorations.

Rosemary is a versatile plant. It is decoratively used in flower beds, hedges and as a pest deterrent (much like mint). Throughout the centuries, it was believed to have purifying properties and healing power. Even today, people use rosemary for its many possible health benefits.

It is known to have a high level of antioxidants, which are believed to combat fungus, bacteria, improve digestion, enhance memory/concentration and fortify against cancers, brain aging and muscular degeneration.

A 2013 study by Kinki University in Osaka, Japan, noted its effectiveness on hair regeneration in lab mice. In this study, growth was stimulated when the leave’s essential oils were applied to bald spots.

Rosemary is unique, as it can be harvested at any time of year and can be preserved in many ways. One way is to add rosemary sprigs to olive oil.

Another is by hanging clippings upside down for about two weeks. After this, remove the stems and store the leaves in an airtight jar, where it can be used as needed.

Additionally, snipping off pieces of the plant will promote bushier growth, allowing it to be used more frequently. A wide variety of savory to sweet dishes can be created with rosemary. It adds a fragrant flavor to breads, meats, cheeses and crackers. Or, use it to add some flair in drinks, desserts, salad dressings, soups or sauces.

Although most dried rosemary is produced in the Mediterranean where it originates, growing it yourself will provide you with a fresher herb and a new hobby. It can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 6 and 7, but in these colder environments, it needs heavy mulch for insulation and ideally to be protected by a south-facing wall. It is recommended to buy a young plant, as it is quite difficult to grow from seed.

Although it grows slowly, it can reach heights up to 6 feet. It tolerates partial shade but prefers full sun, and favors light, well-draining soil with a mildly acidic or neutral pH between 5.5 and 6.7.

For best results in our region, I recommend growing rosemary in a container or pot that can easily be taken indoors during colder months. If you decide to add rosemary to your garden, keep in mind it is best to be planted in the spring. Alternatively, if you keep it indoors, know it is susceptible to powdery mildew and root rot.

The uses of rosemary are seemingly limitless. It is ornamental, savory and fragrant. It’s the perfect addition to your home or cuisine this holiday season.

— Fontanez, a recent graduate of the Master Gardener program, can be reached at tamarafontanez@hotmail.com.