About Rosemary
In Mexico City, one can easily notice an interesting phenomenon while taking a walk: many public flower pots are adorned with robust rosemary shrubs, dark green and aromatic. It’s common to spot it in plazas, parks, and sidewalks, thriving almost without care and filling the air with its balsmic fragrance. This is because rosemary is a strong, noble, and adaptable bush that flourishes in pots, gardens, or even forgotten corners of the city.
Its resilience is not a coincidence. Originating from the Mediterranean basin, rosemary has perfectly adapted to the temperate-dry climate of much of Mexico, including its capital. It doesn’t require much water, tolerates intense sunlight, and defends itself against pests. This explains why it’s often planted as an ornamental urban plant or a living fence.
How to Cultivate Rosemary at Home
Rosemary is ideal for those who don’t consider themselves experienced gardeners. Here are some tips:
- Choice of pot or soil: It grows well in medium to large-sized pots, but can also be planted directly into the garden. It prefers well-drained soil, even poor ones.
- Plenty of sun: It needs at least 5-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. This is why it thrives so well in the sunny flower pots of Mexico City.
- Moderate watering: Avoid overwatering. A deep watering once a week is usually sufficient, even less during the rainy season.
- Regular pruning: Trim the tips to encourage bushier growth. Pruned branches can be used fresh or dry.
- Pest control: Rarely gets attacked. If there are aphids, simply use soapy water or a bit of diluted vegetable oil.
Uses in the Kitchen
Rosemary adds an unmistakable resinous, citrusy, and earthy flavor. Here are some ideas to make the most of it:
- Roasted meats: Pairs perfectly with pork, lamb, or chicken.
- Roasted potatoes: A few sprigs elevate the flavor.
- Homemade bread: A rosemary and olive oil bread is a Mediterranean classic.
- Infused oils: Simply submerge branches in olive oil to create a delicious condiment.
- Teas: A hot cup aids digestion and stimulates circulation.
Rosemary is a generous plant. It thrives with little effort and gives much in return: flavor, health, and an unmistakable fragrance. In Mexico City, it has become part of the urban landscape, inviting everyone to harvest a bit of the countryside amidst the asphalt.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is rosemary? Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is an aromatic evergreen herb native to the Mediterranean region. It’s widely used in cooking for its distinctive flavor and also has medicinal properties.
- Why is rosemary so popular in Mexico City? Its resilience and adaptability to the city’s climate have made it a common sight in public spaces, thriving with minimal care.
- How do I cultivate rosemary at home? Rosemary prefers well-drained soil, plenty of sunlight, moderate watering, regular pruning, and minimal pest control. It can be grown in pots or directly in the garden.
- What are some culinary uses for rosemary? Rosemary is used in various dishes, especially roasted meats and vegetables. It’s also used to flavor bread, infuse oils, and prepare teas.
