About
A reliable, woody-based herbaceous perennial forming a loose clump of wiry stems to 45cm, with moderately fragranced, small, ovate, dark green foliage, flushed purple in colder conditions. Tubular pink flowers with deep purple bracts appear in summer to autumn.
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 pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing
ExposureExposed
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesGravel garden, Rock garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in poor to moderately fertile, well-drained, preferably alkaline soil in full sun. Dislikes 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. Propagate by basal cuttings in late spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free