Rocky Top false rosemary
Conradina verticillata 'Rocky Top'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
12 inches
Width
48 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate, drought-tolerant once established
Humidity
Prefers dry to moderate humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Rocky Top is a cultivar of Conradina verticillata, known for its aromatic foliage and attractive purple flowers. This cultivar is particularly noted for its compact growth habit and resistance to drought.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Water gently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Mist cuttings regularly to encourage root development.
- Transplant seedlings when they are 4-6 inches tall, after the last frost.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced organic fertilizer.
Pro Tip
Use sandy or loamy soil for optimal drainage and plant in full sun for best growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
- Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don't fertilize in late fall
- Avoid planting in heavy clay soils without amendment
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Rocky Top false rosemary questions
What zones can Rocky Top false rosemary grow in?
Rocky Top false rosemary is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Rocky Top false rosemary deer resistant?
Yes — Rocky Top false rosemary is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Rocky Top false rosemary bloom?
Rocky Top false rosemary typically blooms in late spring to early summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Rocky Top false rosemary need full sun?
Rocky Top false rosemary does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Rocky Top false rosemary drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Rocky Top false rosemary handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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