Discover more about the symbolism of rosemary, a fragrant Mediterranean plant that inspires poets and adorns weddings.
An Inspiration to Poets
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis or Salvia rosmarinus in Latin) is an aromatic plant from Mediterranean gardens that troubadours and poets have praised for centuries. For instance, this lovely plant is mentioned in the literary works of Marko Marulić and was highly regarded by another renowned Croatian author, the poet from Hvar, Petar Hektorović. Also, famous English poet, playwright, and actor William Shakespeare states that rosemary is a symbol of remembrance.
The name rosemary comes from the Latin word rosmarinus, which is assumed to mean “sea dew”, and in most world languages we find names that are more or less similar to English (Rosmarin – German, Danish, Norwegian, rosmarino – Italian, romero – Spanish, rožmarin – Slovenian, ružmarin – Croatian, etc.).
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Rosemary Adorns Weddings
Thanks to Isabella Jagiellon, Queen of Hungary, in the 16th century, rosemary became known as a plant of rejuvenation. The ancient Greeks were already familiar with its properties and therefore dedicated it to Aphrodite.
In the Middle Ages, rosemary was part of all important periods of life. Cradles were decorated with the plant’s fragrant branches, girls wore a wreath of rosemary at their wedding. The custom of decorating wedding guests with this aromatic Mediterranean plant is present to this day because rosemary symbolizes love and fidelity.
Rememberance, rejuvenation, love, and fidelity – rosemary is a very inspirational plant. In Hvar, my home island in Dalmatia, Croatia, this fragrant plant enriches many promenades along the sea. Best wishes from Danica! 🙂
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