False rosemary
Plants in the Conradina or False rosemary
genus may look like their namesake
cousin, whose leaves are used as a
savory cooking spice, but these members
of the Lamiaceae (mint) family emit a
minty-fresh smell when their leaves are
crushed. There are six Conradina species
found in Florida; only one, Conradina
canescens, is not considered endangered
or threatened.
The plants are evergreen and reward
gardeners with a spring display of
fragrant white-lavender blooms.
Description
Conradina are small perennial shrubs
that mature into 2- to 3-foot-wide and
-tall silvery-green clumps. Their short,
needlelike leaves grow densely from
upright stems that branch from a main
woody stem.
Conradina canescens occurs in the
western Panhandle, and is found in dry
disturbed areas and in dunes. Shortleaved
false rosemary (C. brevifolia),
a federally listed endangered species,
is found only in scrub habitats in Polk
and Highlands counties in south Central
Florida. It reaches out with graceful
ngers that give it a uniue character
apart from C. canescens. Largeower
false rosemary (C. grandiora), a statelisted
threatened species, can be found
along coastal counties in the central and
southern peninsula on scrubby sites. It
has larger owers and a more upright
growth. All are very drought-resistant
once established.
Prolic owers cover Conradina in spring,
and the plant can keep blooming through
late fall. This versatile deer-resistant
groundcover can be used in mass plantings,
as a single specimen or in a pot.
Planting
Conradina can last three or more years
in landscapes. Plant in sandy, welldrained
soil, and water until established.
Conradina releases a chemical that
suppresses the growth of other
vegetation, including weeds, and thus
may be benecial, but also may restrict
growth of other plants close by.
Seeds
Seeds are not commercially available, but
may be collected from plants when fresh.
Sow in spring in well-drained soil and
keep moist until germination occurs.
Plants
Conradina can be easily started from
cuttings (4-inch non-branching terminal
shoots) in well-drained potting soil in small
pots. Mist daily and do not allow soil to
dry. Prune before transplanting or within
one week after transplanting. Pinch tips to
encourage branching. Plants are readily
available from nurseries specializing in
native plants.
Care
Conradina may be trimmed after
owering, but most gardeners leave it
alone and enjoy its beautiful natural form.
Sections of older, well-established plants
may die suddenly;
remove these to
encourage new
2–3 ft
growth. C. grandiora
will tolerate some
Nectar
overhead or drip
irrigation. Other
Conradina species should be watered
only during extended dry periods.
Because this plant thrives naturally in dry
ecosystems, overwatering may cause rot
and decline.
Site conditions
Conradina is ideal for dry, sandy soils in
full sun. It will thrive on natural rainfall. If
your landscape is irrigated on a regular
basis, look for a spot that remains dry.
Hardiness zones
Conradina grandiora is suited for zones
9a–9b. C. canescens is best for 8a-9b.
Conradina is attractive to some
butteries and moths, but it mostly
draws native bees, including large
carpenter and digger bees. Honey
bees also have been seen sampling
its nectar.
Of the six Conradina
species in the state,
all but C. canescens
CAUTION
are endangered or
threatened, and thus
limited in population.
Because these species can hybridize,
it is important to plant the species
found naturally in your area to help
preserve the distinct genetic identities
and ecological roles of these plants.
In Polk and Highlands counties,
choose C. brevifolia. Along the central
and southern east coast, choose C.
grandiora. Ask your nursery supplier
for the species native to your locale.
Photo by Ron and Diane Bynum
Conradina grandiora with needlelike leaves
Photo by Andrea England
Conradina canescens
Photo by Peg Urban
Conradina grandiora in a landscape