Rosmarinus Officinalis 'Gallipoli'

Rosemary 'Gallipoli'

Botanical Name: Rosmarinus officinalis 'Gallipoli'
Family: Lamiaceae
Origin: Mediterranean region
Plant Type: Evergreen shrub

Overview

‘Gallipoli’ Rosemary is a robust, upright selection that brings structure, fragrance and seasonal colour to South Australian gardens. Dense, aromatic green foliage forms a tidy hedge or feature shrub, with soft blue flowers in late winter–spring (and occasional autumn flushes) providing nectar for bees. Perfect for low-maintenance borders, kitchen gardens and coastal sites around Adelaide.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 1.5–3 m H x 1–2 m W (naturally upright, dense)
• Growth Rate: 30-50 cm per year under good conditions
• Foliage: Aromatic, fine, deep to mid-green leaves; neat, branching habit
• Flowers: Soft blue to blue-violet blooms mainly late winter–spring; intermittent spot flowering adds colour and nectar
  
• Seasonal Interest: Reliable year-round structure with peak cool-season flowering
• Wildlife Value: Nectar-rich flowers that attract bees and other pollinators
• Tolerance: Drought-tolerant once established; Heat- and Coastal-tolerant; Light frost tolerant (to about –5 °C); Wind-tolerant; manages clay if drainage is improved
• Planting Density: Hedges: 2–3 plants per metre; Specimen/borders: space 1–1.5 m apart
• Pet Friendly: Yes — non-toxic to dogs & cats

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Full sun to part shade
• Soil: Well-drained loam, sandy loam or improved clay loam; avoid waterlogging (add gypsum/coarse grit on heavy soils)
• Water Needs: Establishment: 2 deep soaks/week for 8–12 weeks. Established: deep soak every 10–14 days in summer; monthly in winter if dry
• Maintenance: Mulch in spring; prune after flowering or late winter to shape (avoid cutting into old wood); light organic feed in early spring
• Lifespan: 15-25 years
• Climate Zones: Suited to temperate and Mediterranean SA gardens, including coastal areas
• Soil pH: Neutral to Alkaline

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Formal or informal hedging for paths, driveways and kitchen gardens
• Mass plant for cohesive, low-maintenance structure and weed suppression
• Feature near entries and entertaining areas; also suits large containers

Why You Will Love It

A tough, upright rosemary that thrives in Adelaide’s climate, delivering fragrance, form and cool-season colour with minimal care. Ideal for hedging or a standout specimen, while feeding local pollinators and staying neat year-round.