About
A reliable, attractive, upright perennial with bright, lightly perfumed, yellow-green leaves and erect sprays of dainty, deep pink flowers in summer and autumn. A mild flavour.
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, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Sand, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial, Herbs - Culinary
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
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 any well drained, alkaline soil in full sun or partial shade. See oregano cultivation for more information This plant was included in the RHS Origanum (oregano and marjoram) trial 2022-2023
PruningCut back foliage in autumn
PropagationPropagate by division in spring or autumn
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to leafhoppers
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free