An elegant, upright rosemary cultivar, Rosmarinus officinalis ‘Miss Jessopp’s Upright’ forms tall, bushy clumps of strongly aromatic foliage with pale blue flowers in spring. Its neat, vertical habit makes it perfect for hedging, structural planting, or growing in containers. As useful in the kitchen as it is beautiful in the garden, it’s a classic choice for Mediterranean-style borders, herb beds, and wildlife-friendly planting.
Rosmarinus officinalis ‘Miss Jessopp’s Upright’, commonly known as Upright Rosemary, is a heritage variety dating back to the early 20th century. It’s known for its strong scent, flavour, and tidy growth – ideal where space is limited.
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Perennial
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Evergreen, Upright and architectural, Aromatic foliage
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Flowers: March – May (with occasional repeat flowering later in the season)
Foliage: Year-round
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Scientific Name
Rosmarinus officinalis ‘Miss Jessopp’s Upright’ (now reclassified as Salvia rosmarinus ‘Miss Jessopp’s Upright’)
Named after Miss E. A. Jessopp, a notable 20th-century British plantswoman
Synonyms
Salvia rosmarinus ‘Miss Jessopp’s Upright’
Common Name
Upright Rosemary
Origin
Mediterranean species, this cultivar selected and introduced in the UK
Pruning Tips
Trim lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushy growth. Avoid cutting into woody stems
Wildlife Value
Highly attractive to bees, particularly early in the season when other nectar sources are scarce
Positioning
Full sun in a well-drained, sheltered position. Ideal for hedging, borders, or pots near doorways and paths
Water
Water during dry spells in the first year. Drought tolerant once established
Soil
Well-drained, poor to moderately fertile soil. Avoid heavy or wet ground, especially in winter
Food
Rarely needed – a light mulch of compost in spring is sufficient
Pet-safe
Generally considered non-toxic to pets
Sprouts Top Tips
Perfect for clipping into low, fragrant hedges or as a feature in herb gardens. Place it near paths or entrances where its scent can be enjoyed as you pass by.
