About
This hardy, upright perennial with highly aromatic, dark green leaves that dry well for culinary use. White flowers appear in mid-summer and last 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 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 marjoram cultivation for more information This plant was included in the RHS Origanum (oregano and marjoram) trial 2022-2023
PruningCut back in autumn
PropagationPropagate by seed or by division in autumn or spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to leafhoppers
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free