Oregano

Origanum vulgare  

Seeds per pack ~ 150  

Germination: 92% Oct 2023

Packed for 2024

Common Oregano. Aromatic and mouth-watering, oregano is easy to grow as well as perennial, delectable both fresh and dry. Low growing and with velvet leaves, oregano thrives in containers and partial sun as well as raised beds and gardens. For millennia, oregano has been used medicinally as an antiseptic as well as for stomach and respiratory ailments in addition to beloved versatility in our kitchens.

Origanum vulgare, commonly known as oregano, is a hardy perennial herb belonging to the mint family (Lamiaceae). Native to Europe, the Mediterranean region, and parts of Asia, oregano is a widely used culinary and medicinal plant. Oregano is easy to grow and maintain, making it an excellent choice for home gardens, herb spirals, or container planting.

Characteristics: Oregano is a low-growing, spreading herb that typically reaches 30–60 cm (12–24 inches) in height.  The leaves are small, oval, and usually dark green, sometimes with a slightly hairy texture. They have a strong aromatic scent when crushed. Oregano produces tiny, tubular flowers that can range in color from white to pink or purplish. These flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The plant has a fibrous root system.

Cultivation: Hardiness Zones- USDA zones 4–10. Oregano thrives in temperate climates and prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Grows best in well-draining, moderately fertile soils with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Requires moderate watering; it's drought-tolerant once established. Can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, or division.

Culinary Uses: The leaves are widely used in Mediterranean, Italian, and Mexican cuisines, either fresh or dried. They impart a warm, slightly bitter, and peppery flavor to dishes like pizza, pasta, soups, and roasted vegetables.

Medicinal Properties: Oregano is rich in antioxidants and has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and digestive benefits. It's often used in teas, essential oils, and traditional remedies.