Species oregano
white-brown flowers with lime leaves and brown stems

oregano

Origanum vulgare 'Aureum'

Oregano (Origanum vulgare 'Aureum') is a robust and hardy perennial shrub with small golden-tinged leaves. It can grow to be keep quite large, up to two feet in height and width. It thrives in well-drained soil, producing aromatic flowers with clusters of two-lipped, white-and-violet blooms. These flowers add a delicate accent to Oregano's eye-catching lacy foliage. Oregano's signature flavor adds a unique kick to many Mediterranean dishes and its essential oil is also used to produce a wide range of products. This hard-working herb is an excellent choice for any garden.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

Pinkish-purple or white Flowers In Summer

Sun:

Full sun, Part sun/part shade

Soil:

Rocky , gravelly , dry, Well-drained

Fruits:

brown,black Fruits In Summer Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Oregano should be watered when the top 2-3 inches of soil is dry. It likes soil that is moist but not soggy, so it’s best to water thoroughly and then wait to see if the soil dries out before watering again. Watering can usually be done once or twice a week depending on the season and climate. In hot weather, oregano may need to be watered more frequently.

sunlight

Oregano (Origanum vulgare 'Aureum') will grow best in direct sunlight for 6 to 8 hours per day. This sun exposure should be consistent, so this species should be placed in a location where it will receive direct sunlight most of the day. When grown in too much shade, the plant will struggle to form flowers and may die off eventually, so it’s important to monitor how much sunlight it is receiving. With too much sunlight, the plant will dry out quickly and may also wilt or fade.

pruning

Oregano (Origanum vulgare ‘Aureum’) should be pruned back after it has fully bloomed in late spring or early summer. Pruning should be done lightly and selectively, meaning cut back any shoots that are beyond the desired shape of the plant. Be sure not to prune too much or too little, as this can result in an overgrown or sparsely populated plant. Additionally, any dead or damaged leaves should be pruned away in order to promote healthy new growth. Pruning should be done roughly once a year, though more often may be needed based on the growth of the plant in the given season.

Season

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

Origanum vulgare 'Aureum' typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Origanum vulgare 'Aureum' typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Harvest Fruit

The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Origanum vulgare 'Aureum' is usually in July or August.

Hardiness Map

FAQ

Is oregano a perennial herb?

Yes, oregano is a perennial herb. It is hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 through 9, with some varieties growing in zone 4. Oregano is a low-growing herb that can reach up to two feet in height with its clusters of leaves, and will produce white or pink flowers from spring to early summer. Because oregano is a perennial, it can live for several years, allowing new growth each year.

Are there different varieties of oregano?

Yes, there are different varieties of oregano. Some examples include Greek oregano, Italian oregano, Turkish oregano, Mexican oregano, and Cuban oregano. Each variety is distinct in flavor and scent, with Greek oregano being more pungent while the Turkish variety is more mild. Greek oregano is a particularly popular variety and is often used in Mediterranean cooking. Mexican oregano has a slightly citrusy taste and is used in many South American recipes, while Cuban oregano has a mild and subtle flavor and is popular in Latin American cuisine.

Can oregano be grown indoors?

Yes, oregano can be grown indoors as long as it is given enough sunlight and warmth. Keep in mind that oregano is a Mediterranean herb and requires full sun—at least 6 hours per day—to help photosynthesis move along. If you’re growing oregano indoors, the best spot is a south-facing window. Make sure to give the oregano enough water, as it doesn’t like to be overwatered, but it should stay moist. Additionally, it will need soil with great drainage. Fertilizer once a month with an organic fertilizer or compost should help it thrive.

Can oregano be grown indoors?

Yes, oregano can definitely be grown indoors! All you need is a large container that can fit at least 6 inches of good quality soil, such as a pot, a bucket, or even a large plastic tub. Place your oregano in an area with plenty of sunlight, such as a sunny windowsill. Water frequently and ensure that the oregano gets plenty of air circulation. You can expect your oregano to reach maturity in about 8 to 12 weeks - harvest it as soon as it looks and smells ready!

Should oregano be harvested before or after flowering?

Harvesting oregano before flowering is best because it contains the most flavor before reaching maturity. When harvesting before flowering, you'll be sure to get the plant at its most flavorful stage. Once oregano has flowered, the oils begin to degrade and the flavor and aroma of the herb will diminish. For best flavor, harvest oregano right before it flowers - pick the smaller, younger leaves and avoid the older, larger ones.

Is oregano a member of the mint family?

Yes, oregano is a member of the mint family. Oregano (Origanum vulgare) is an herb belonging to the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is closely related to herbs such as thyme, marjoram, basil, rosemary, and lavender, as well as many other herbs used in cooking and medicinal applications. Oregano has a strong, aromatic flavor and is often used as a substitute for marjoram and thyme and is used as a seasoning for pizza, salads, and other dishes.

Can oregano be grown in a container garden?

Yes, oregano can easily be grown in a container garden. Oregano is an easy-to-manage herb that is commonly grown for its uses in cooking. When grown in a container, oregano should be planted in a pot that is at least 8 inches deep with well-draining soil. Additionally, oregano should have plenty of sunlight and should only be watered when the soil is dry. As the oregano begins to outgrow its container, it can be easily transplanted into a larger pot. With proper care, oregano will produce flavorful leaves for many years.

Could oregano be grown alongside other herbs?

Yes, oregano can be grown alongside other herbs. Oregano can be planted as part of a larger herb garden, or it can be grouped with other Mediterranean herbs to create a sunny area that replicates the plant's natural environment. Planting oregano in a flower bed or border will add interest and texture, while the herb's pleasant aroma will add fragrance to the garden. Make sure to give oregano plenty of space and well-draining soil, and provide water and sunshine as needed. With some care, oregano can be grown with other herbs for a fragrant and productive culinary garden.