About
Origanum vulgare, oregano, is a bushy, woody-based, aromatic perennial subshrub with upright stems 20�80 cm tall and small, opposite, oval, dark-green leaves approximately 3 cm long. Panicle-like, loose clusters of small, tubular, pink flowers are produced in summer and early autumn. The flowers are loved by bees and pollinators, and the leaves are one of the most widely used culinary herbs worldwide. An essential plant for a sunny herb garden or border.
About the genus
Origanum are herbaceous perennials, deciduous or evergreen subshrubs with aromatic foliage and spikes of small, tubular flowers usually with conspicuous bracts. Widely grown as culinary herbs and ornamental garden plants.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing, North-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbs - Culinary, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Wildflower meadow, City and courtyard gardens, Mediterranean climate plants
Native toEurope, N. Africa
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in a any well-drained (preferably alkaline) soil, in full sun or partial shade. 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 seed or by division in the autumn or spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free