Species Russian oregano
pink-purple flowers with green leaves and brown stems

Russian oregano

Origanum vulgare subsp. gracile

Russian oregano (Origanum vulgare subsp. gracile), also known as narrow-leaved oregano, is a member of the mint family native to the Mediterranean region. It features light green, pointed, perennial foliage and produces bright pink-purple flowers in the summer. As both a culinary and ornamental plant, it is used to flavor many dishes, infuse herbal tea, or simply for adding color and life to outdoor spaces. It prefers well-drained, warm soil in a sunny location, and grows best in USDA hardiness zones 6-9. Russian oregano can be propagated from cuttings, seed, or division and requires minimal maintenance to thrive.

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 Summer

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Maintenance:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Russian oregano should be watered when the soil is dry to the touch, but not so much that it becomes saturated. Watering every 3-4 days is recommended when temperatures are high, and less often when temperatures are cooler. Soak the soil to a depth of 6 inches, then allow the top 2-3 inches to dry out before watering again. Be careful not to over-water as this can lead to root rot.

sunlight

Russian oregano, also known as Origanum vulgare subsp. gracile, is a plant species native to the temperate climates of Europe and northern Asia. This species is well suited to low light conditions, and will do best with at least 4 to 5 hours of direct sunlight each day. In areas that receive significant amounts of shade, this plant should be grown in a container and placed inside to ensure it gets enough sunlight. During the summer months, it is recommended to provide at least 6 hours of full sunlight each day. In winter months, it will tolerate as little as 2 to 3 hours of full sunlight each day in order to Photosynthesize.

pruning

Russian oregano should be pruned once a year at the end of the dormant season, typically in late winter or early spring. Before pruning, inspect the plant for signs of overgrowth and remove any dead or unhealthy stems or branches. To encourage bushiness, it's recommended to cut back all of the stems by about 1-third. This will maintain the shape of the plant and control growth. Before pruning, make sure your garden tools are clean to prevent the spread of disease.

Season

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

Harvesting of Russian oregano typically begins in July and continues through September.

Starts Flowering

Russian oregano typically starts flowering in June.

Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Russian oregano typically begins in July and continues through September.

Hardiness Map