Overview
Origanum vulgare 'Hot & Spicy' is a bushy, clump forming, spreading branched herb in the genus Origanum, part of the Lamiaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.6 m tall and 0.6 m wide. Origanum vulgare 'Hot & Spicy' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include culinary and ornamental. It is native to Mediterranean region.
About
Oregano, sometimes called wild marjoram, is a species of flowering plant in the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is native to the Mediterranean region but widely naturalised elsewhere in the temperate Northern Hemisphere, particularly the United States and Mexico.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Oregano
About the genus
Origanum is a genus of herbaceous perennial flowering plants and subshrubs in the family Lamiaceae. They are native to Europe, North Africa, and much of temperate Asia, where they are found in open or mountainous habitats. A few species also naturalized in scattered locations in North America and other regions.
Wikipedia contributors, "Origanum", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Origanum
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Origanum
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Full sun
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Origanum vulgare 'Hot & Spicy' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herb
- Habit
- Bushy, Clump forming, Spreading branched
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.6 m
- Spread
- 0.6 m
- Suggested uses
- Culinary, Ornamental
- Native to
- Mediterranean region
- Fragrance
- Strong, spicy oregano scent
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Origanum vulgare 'Hot & Spicy'
- Cultivation
- Grow in well-drained soil with full sun exposure. Avoid overwatering.
- Pruning
- Prune regularly to encourage bushy growth and prevent legginess.
- Propagation
- Propagation by cuttings or division.
- Pest resistance
- Leafhoppers, Aphids
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Origanum vulgare 'Hot & Spicy'?
Grow in well-drained soil with full sun exposure. Avoid overwatering.
Where is the best place to plant Origanum vulgare 'Hot & Spicy'?
Origanum vulgare 'Hot & Spicy' prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.
What soil does Origanum vulgare 'Hot & Spicy' need?
Origanum vulgare 'Hot & Spicy' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Origanum vulgare 'Hot & Spicy'?
Prune regularly to encourage bushy growth and prevent legginess.
How big does Origanum vulgare 'Hot & Spicy' grow?
Origanum vulgare 'Hot & Spicy' reaches a height of 0.6 m and a spread of 0.6 m.
Is Origanum vulgare 'Hot & Spicy' hardy in the UK?
Origanum vulgare 'Hot & Spicy' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Origanum vulgare 'Hot & Spicy'?
Propagation by cuttings or division.
More in the Origanum genus
- Origanum 'Kent Beauty'

- Origanum Bristol Cross

- Origanum amanum var. albumAmanum Oregano

- Origanum marjoranaSweet Marjoram