About
An upright, bushy, evergreen perennial with small, highly aromatic, edible, ovate, grey-green leaves and clusters of tiny, white flowers that appear from late spring into summer.
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, Neutral, Alkaline
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial, Herbs - Culinary
HabitBushy, Clump forming
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Patio and container plants, Rock garden, Wildlife gardens
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile or poor, alkaline, well drained soil in full sun. Dislikes winter wet. Protect with a dry winter mulch or overwinter under glass or indoors. See oregano cultivation for further advice This plant was included in the RHS Origanum (oregano and marjoram) trial 2022-2023
PruningCut back in autumn
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to leafhoppers
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free