Hill Hardy, sometimes sold as Madalene Hill, is a cold-tolerant upright rosemary named for Texas herb expert Madalene Hill, who selected it for winter survival. Similar in hardiness to Arp, it forms a well-branched upright shrub of 3 to 4 feet with narrow green leaves and light blue flowers. Gardeners value it for combining reliable culinary quality with the ability to overwinter outdoors in colder zones than tender Mediterranean types tolerate. Its strong pine-and-camphor flavor suits roasting, grilling, and baking. Hill Hardy is a good structural and culinary choice for herb gardens in transitional climates, and its long bloom period supports bees and beneficial insects in a permaculture setting.
Flavor Profile
Strong, savory and piney with a resinous camphor note, well suited to roasting and baking.
Visual Characteristics
Upright, densely branched shrub to 3-4 feet with narrow green foliage and pale blue blooms.
Growing Tips
One of the hardier upright rosemaries; site in full sun with excellent drainage for best winter survival.
Resistance Information
Disease Resistance
Good disease resistance in dry soils; avoid wet, heavy ground to prevent root rot.
Where to Buy
Sourcing information coming soon. Check local nurseries and seed banks for availability.