About
This semi-evergreen subshrub with trailing stems bearing pairs of rounded, fresh green, aromatic leaves. In summer, whorls of tubular pink flowers appear amongst conspicuous, cone-like, overlapping, deep rose-pink bracts.
About the genus
Origanum may be herbaceous perennials or deciduous or evergreen sub-shrubs, with aromatic foliage and spikes of small tubular flowers usually with conspicuous bracts
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeAlpine Rockery, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Gravel garden, Rock garden, Coastal, Patio and container plants, Mediterranean climate plants, Wildlife gardens
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in poor to moderately fertile, well-drained, preferably alkaline soil in full sun. Protect from winter wet. See oregano cultivation for further advice This plant was included in the RHS Origanum (oregano and marjoram) trial 2022-2023
PruningCut back old flowered stems in early spring
PropagationPropagate by division in spring, or by basal cuttings in late spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free