SafePlants

Conradina glabra: Apalachicola False Rosemary

Conradina glabra, commonly known as Apalachicola false rosemary, is a fascinating plant with a localized presence in the Florida panhandle. While it shares a common name with true rosemary, it belongs to a different genus and is only distantly related.

Considerations for Pets

• The leaves of Conradina glabra impart a pleasant spicy fragrance when touched, indicating the presence of volatile oils that might be of interest to pets.

Considerations for Children

• The leaves of Conradina glabra impart a pleasant spicy fragrance when touched, indicating the presence of volatile oils that might be of interest to children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Conradina glabra Shinners
• Common Names: Apalachicola false rosemary, Apalachicola rosemary, Smooth Rosemary
• Family: Lamiaceae (Mint Family)
• Genus: Conradina A. Gray (false rosemary)
• Synonyms: The provided text also mentions *Conradina canescens* as False Rosemary, but lists it separately from *C. glabra*. Also mentions *Calamintha canescens* and *Conradina puberula* as aka, potentially synonyms.
• Note: The text also references several other Conradina species such as Conradina brevifolia, Conradina grandiflora, and Conradina verticillata.

Distribution and Habitat

• Conradina glabra is found in a small area in the Apalachicola region of Florida, specifically Liberty County.
• It thrives in sandy, acid soils and wiregrass habitats.
• The plant is associated with Rosemary Beach, FL.
• Specific locations mentioned include the vicinity of Torreya State Park.
• Other locations mentioned are Highlands, Polk, and Hernando Counties.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Conradina glabra is a perennial shrub.
• The flowers can be purple, violet, white, or pink.
• The leaves of Conradina glabra impart a pleasant spicy fragrance when touched.

Ecological Role

• The text mentions threats to its habitat from invasive species and fire suppression.

Conservation Status

• The Apalachicola Rosemary is listed as an endangered species in the U.S.

Quirky Facts

• Conradina glabra is considered the "rosemary" of Rosemary Beach, FL, even though it is not closely related to true rosemary.
• The text refers to "false" rosemaries, highlighting the importance of scientific names in accurately identifying plants.

Further Information

• Discover Life provides a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Conradina glabra.
• Southeasternflora.com provides information and potentially images of Conradina glabra.
• Dixinary.com contains a collection of photos of Conradina glabra.
• The Apalachicola Bluffs and Ravines Preserve (TNC) may have information on Conradina glabra.