About
A compact, bushy, woody perennial with upright to spreading stems carrying highly aromatic, dark green leaves and with small clusters of white flowers appearing from mid-summer through 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, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
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
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesMediterranean climate plants, Patio and container plants, Rock garden, Wildlife gardens, Cottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens
Native toEurope
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any well drained, alkaline soil in full sun or partial shade. See oregano cultivation for more information
PruningCut back in autumn
PropagationPropagate by seed or by division in autumn or spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to leafhoppers
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free