Tuscan Blue Rosemary vs Other Varieties — CompleteGrow Expert Comparison & Guide

Comparing ‘Tuscan Blue’ with Other Rosemary Types

1. Tuscan Blue vs Common Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

‘Tuscan Blue’ is often described as a “refined evolution” of standard rosemary. While both belong to the same species, Tuscan Blue forms an upright columnar shape up to 1.8 metres tall, compared to the more mounding, spreading habit of common rosemary (~1 metre). Its broader leaves have a high concentration of essential oils, making it both more aromatic and better suited for decorative hedges.

• Appearance: Tuscan Blue is deep green and glossy; common rosemary is silvery-green.
• Flowering: Tuscan Blue blooms heavily with vivid blue-violet flowers from late winter to spring.
• Culinary use: Common rosemary has a gentler flavour ideal for sauces; Tuscan Blue is stronger and ideal for roasting and meats.

2. Barbeque Rosemary vs Tuscan Blue

‘Barbeque’ rosemary was bred for culinary convenience. Its stiff, straight stems are perfect for grilling skewers — hence its name. Compared to Tuscan Blue, Barbeque grows more compactly (1–1.2 m), with finer leaves and a cleaner pine aroma that complements chicken, lamb, and seafood. While both varieties love full sun and dry soil, Barbeque is slightly faster-growing and easier to prune into uniform shapes.

• Growth rate: Barbeque matures earlier, reaching full height in 18 months; Tuscan Blue takes up to two years.
• Stem structure: Barbeque’s vertical rigidity makes it the best for grilling stems.
• Aroma: Tuscan Blue’s oil profile leans resinous and strong; Barbeque’s is cleaner and less smoky.

3. Gorizia vs Tuscan Blue

The ‘Gorizia’ rosemary cultivar originates from Italy and stands out for its extra-large leaves and open form. Gorizia’s stems arch outward rather than growing vertically, creating a soft, cascading shrub perfect for borders or garden edges. Its leaves are up to twice as wide as Tuscan Blue’s, though its aroma is milder and less pine-heavy.

• Height & spread: Gorizia reaches 1.5 m wide but only 1.2 m tall; Tuscan Blue remains narrower but taller.
• Leaf size: Gorizia’s leaves are broader and velvety; Tuscan Blue’s are needle-like.
• Flower colour: Both produce deep blue blooms, but Gorizia tends to flower earlier in the year.

Gorizia is an excellent choice for gardeners who prefer a relaxed, natural appearance, whereas Tuscan Blue suits formal gardens and tall hedges.

4. Tuscan Blue vs Spice Island

‘Spice Island’ is the culinary powerhouse of the rosemary world. Its leaves contain the highest essential oil concentration, producing an intense, peppery aroma ideal for seasoning. It’s smaller in stature, rarely exceeding 90 cm, but dense and richly fragrant. Tuscan Blue, by contrast, prioritises visual presence and ornamental impact.

• Growth habit: Spice Island is compact and dome-shaped; Tuscan Blue is tall and columnar.
• Flavour: Spice Island is sharp and concentrated — best for marinades and roasts.
• Climate tolerance: Spice Island performs well inland; Tuscan Blue prefers coastal or breezy sites.