Known by its Latin name Rosmarinus officinalis, it is a native to the Mediterranean region where it grows into a small shrub. Another of the legends surrounding the plant is that it will never grow taller than Jesus. Should it outlive his 33 years it will then cease all height growth and only grow laterally. As mentioned previously, it is a tender perennial. Typically it is hardy only to zone 8 and gardeners in cooler regions will grow it as an annual or will need to bring the plant inside for the winter. (According to the Rosemary: The Rite Herb site, there is a variety called Arp that is hardy to zone 6.) Due to its deep lore, rosemary has been widely planted where ever it will survive. It is a sun lover and in its native habitat occupies poor and droughty sites. In the garden it should be planted in full sun in average, well drained soil. If you are outside its range you will have to lift it and bring it in over the winter or grow it as an annual. Otherwise it is a tough plant, weathering drought well and it is tolerant of salt spray and salty soils making it a good coastal plant. Add that it is deer resistant and you have a shrub that will fill some difficult niches in warmer temperate climes.
Rosemary has a reputation as a somewhat difficult house plant. Most likely this devolves to soil moisture and possibly light. If you lift your plant and bring it in, provide an ample pot. Root space is not really the issue, it is just that larger soil volumes are easier to regulate water wise. The first rule is that rosemary doesn't like wet feet. You do not want soggy soil or a saucer under the pot with standing water. Do provide adequate moisture, but let it drain through the soil. Water when the soil is dry an inch down. A thorough soaking in the sink, allowing the pot to drain fully is just what the doctor ordered. Place the plant in as bright a light as possible for over wintering. Misting can help if your house air is dry. More indoor hints can be found here.
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