Species oregano
yellow-lime leaves with orange stems

oregano

Origanum vulgare 'Aureum Crispum'

Origanum vulgare 'Aureum Crispum', or Golden Crisp Oregano, is an herbaceous perennial with bright golden-yellow foliage. It produces white fuzzy flowers in summer. This variety is perfect for adding a flavor boost to pizza, pasta dishes, and other Italian favorites. It has a mild, sweet flavor and aroma that is a bit stronger than other oregano varieties. The leaves of oregano are also edible and make a great addition to salads or sandwiches. 'Aureum Crispum' does well in moist, well-drained soil in full sun and is a hardy plant that will thrive in many climates.

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 is a drought-tolerant plant, however it will need watering occasionally to stay healthy. Here are some tips on caring for oregano: - Water oregano every 7-10 days during the summer months when the soil is dry to prevent wilting. - Water oregano less frequently in the fall and winter months when temperatures are cooler and rainfall is higher. - If the soil feels dry (1-2 inches deep), it’s time to water. - Water your oregano deeply, allowing water to reach the roots and saturate the soil. - Avoid over-watering as it can cause root rot and other problems. - Mulch the soil to help retain moisture.

sunlight

Oregano (Origanum vulgare 'Aureum Crispum') needs at least 6 to 8 hours of full sunlight each day when grown outdoors in the garden. When grown indoors, it should be placed near a window that gets southern exposure. It’s important to provide the right amount of light for this plant in order to maximize its growth and flowering. Too little sunlight will lead to weak and pale foliage while too much can lead to scorching and wilting. In general, oregano prefers sunny, warm locations.

pruning

Oregano (Origanum vulgare 'Aureum Crispum') should be pruned in late spring and early fall. Pruning in the late spring, when the plant is just beginning to bud, can help to encourage a bushier growth habit. This is accomplished by cutting off any long shoots with a pair of garden scissors. Pruning in the early fall can help to facilitate the hardening of new growth towards the beginning of winter and help the plant stay healthy throughout the cold months. Again, use garden scissors to remove any weak or damaged stems, as well as dead leaves or blooms. Pruning should not be done too aggressively - aim to remove only around a third of the plant’s growth each time.

Season

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

Harvesting of Origanum vulgare 'Aureum Crispum' (oregano) can begin in July and continue through October.

Starts Flowering

Oregano typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and July.

Starts Flowering

Oregano typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and July.

Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Origanum vulgare 'Aureum Crispum' (oregano) can begin in July and continue through October.

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.