Oregano
Origanum vulgare
Also known as
Wild Marjoram, English Marjoram, Grove Marjoram, Pot Marjoram, Wintersweet, Golden marjory
Photo by Marjory (All rights reserved)
Full Sun
Moderate care
Moderate watering
Half-hardy
H7-H3
RHS hardiness
-20°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
60cm | Max | 80cm |
20cm | Min | 20cm |
Flowering
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter
This plant has a mild fragrance
More images of Oregano
Oregano Overview
Origanum vulgare is well known by the names Wild Marjoram and Oregano, amongst others. Oregano is a hardy perennial from the Lamiaceae family. It has a spreading habit, typically growing to around 60cm in height. It produces soft, round, oval-shaped aromatic leaves and is well known for its culinary use, especially in Mediterranean dishes. The leaves often have toothed edges and are textured. It is highly recommended for novice gardeners as it is both easy to grow and has a practical use. Oregano produces small, pink-purple to white flowers from purple buds in summer-autumn. This species is part of the Royal Horticultural Society “Plants for Pollinators” initiative to showcase plants which support pollinator populations by providing ample amounts of nectar and/ or pollen. A great choice for encouraging pollinating insect wildlife into your garden!
Common problems with Oregano
Oregano Companion Plants
How to harvest Oregano
Leaves can be harvested throughout the year.
How to propagate Oregano
Seed
Sow during the Spring onto a bed of moist compost. The seeds need light to germinate and so only a very light covering of compost or a layer of vermiculite is needed. Germination takes 1-2 weeks
Division
Divide clumps in the Spring and replant.
Cuttings
Make 10-15cm long cuttings and root in a glass of water on a windowsill or keep moist in a well-draining potting soil mix.
Special features of Oregano
Attracts useful insects
Bees and butterflies.
Attractive leaves
Attractive flowers
Ground cover
Other uses of Oregano
Culinary, walls, rock garden, banks, border, edging, ground cover, aroma
Edible
The leaves are used as a culinary herb that is present in Mediterranean cuisine.
Medicinal
It is known for its effective anti-oxidant and anti-bacterial qualities.
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