Species golden oregano
light-green leaves and brown stems

golden oregano

Origanum majorana 'Aurea'

Golden oregano (Origanum majorana 'Aurea') is an aromatic shrubby herb that grows up to 45cm in height. It features golden-yellow to chartreuse-yellow leaves that become more vivid in colour in bright or sunny positions. It is a hardy species and tolerant of poor soils and full sun, with some drought tolerance when established. Its fragrant flowers are a soft pink in colour and it is very attractive to bees and beneficial insects. The leaves of this varieties can be used to flavour sauces, salads and other dishes, and it's also an excellent choice for fragrant, ornamental plantings.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

9 - 10

Flowers:

White to pale pink Flowers In Summer

Sun:

Full sun

Soil:

Alkaline, Rocky , gravelly , dry, Well-drained

Fruits:

gold,yellow,brown Fruits In Autumn Ready In Summer

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

gold,yellow

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Golden oregano (Origanum majorana 'Aurea') should be watered deeply when the top inch or 2 of soil feels dry. The exact amount of watering depends on the local climate, but 1-2 inches per week is generally sufficient. It is important to water the plant until the soil is evenly moist and then allow it to dry out slightly before watering again. Over-watering can cause root rot and fungi, so it is important to avoid standing water and provide good drainage.

sunlight

Golden oregano thrives best in full sun but can tolerate some partial shade in hot climates. It requires 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. Direct sunlight is preferable to filtered sunlight and if flowering and fruiting are desired, it is best to ensure that the plant receives at least 6 hours of direct sun. In cooler climates, golden oregano can do well in full sun for most of the day, although it is advised to provide some afternoon shade.

pruning

Golden Oregano (Origanum majorana 'Aurea') should be pruned during the spring and early summer when the plant is actively growing. Prune the stems back to a height of 6 to 8 inches, cutting off any dead or damaged stems. Avoid pruning more than 1/3 of the plant at a time. The best time of the day to prune is early morning as this is when the stems are turgid and less likely to be damaged. Additionally, shears or scissors sterilized with rubbing alcohol should be used to ensure no disease is spread. After pruning, fertilize the plant to stimulate vigorous new growth.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Origanum majorana 'Aurea' (golden oregano) can begin in July and continue through September.

Starts Flowering

Golden oregano typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Golden oregano typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Origanum majorana 'Aurea' (golden oregano) can begin in July and continue through September.

Hardiness Map