Origanum vulgare

TAXONOMY

FamilyLamiaceae

GenusOriganum

Zone5

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ABOUT

Origanum vulgare, commonly known as oregano, is a perennial herb in the mint family Lamiaceae. Native to temperate Western and Southwestern Eurasia and the Mediterranean region, it is widely used as a culinary herb. Oregano has a strong, aromatic flavor and is often used in Italian, Greek, and Spanish cuisines. The plant can go dormant in colder months, especially in temperate climates.

ALSO KNOWN AS

Common Marjoram

Greek Oregano

Oregano

Origanum americanum

Origanum creticum

Origanum floridum

Origanum heracleoticum

Origanum hirtum f. albiflorum

Origanum majus

Origanum megastachyum var. hirtum

Origanum puberulum

Origanum purpurescens

Origanum vulgare f. carneum

Origanum vulgare f. pallidum

Origanum vulgare subsp. creticum

Origanum vulgare subsp. humile

Origanum vulgare subsp. viride

Origanum vulgare var. albidum

Origanum vulgare var. albiflorum

Origanum vulgare var. album

Origanum vulgare var. creticum

Origanum vulgare var. formosanum

Origanum vulgare var. glabrescens

Origanum vulgare var. heracleoticum

Origanum vulgare var. humile

Origanum vulgare var. pallescens

Origanum vulgare var. prismaticum

Origanum vulgare var. puberulum

Origanum vulgare var. purpurascens

Origanum vulgare var. spiculigerum

Origanum vulgare var. thymiflorum

Thymus origanum

OVERVIEW

WaterDry

SoilLoamy

LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)

Temperature20° C

Humidity50%

GDD1,350

Dormancy3 Months

pH6.5

Pressure1,013 mbar

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DETAILS

Care Instructions

Oregano thrives in bright, direct sunlight and prefers moderate temperatures. It can tolerate dry conditions and does not require frequent watering. Ensure the plant is kept in a well-ventilated area with moderate humidity. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages new growth.

Harvest

Origanum vulgare, commonly known as oregano, should be harvested just before the flowers open, as this is when the leaves contain the highest concentration of essential oils. To harvest, cut the stems about 2-3 inches above the ground, ideally in the morning after the dew has dried but before the heat of the day. Regular harvesting encourages the plant to produce more foliage. After cutting, the stems can be bundled and hung upside down in a well-ventilated, dry, and dark place to dry. Once dried, the leaves can be stripped from the stems and stored in an airtight container.

Soil

Oregano prefers well-draining soil, ideally a loamy mix. It can tolerate poor soil conditions but thrives best in moderately fertile soil. Ensure the soil dries out almost completely between waterings to prevent root rot.

Fertilizer

Oregano benefits from a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-5. Fertilize sparingly, as too much can reduce the plant's aromatic qualities. Apply fertilizer once in the growing season.

Repotting

Repot oregano every 1-2 years or when the plant outgrows its container. Choose a pot slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage. Repot in the spring before the growing season begins.

Propagation

Oregano can be propagated through cuttings or division. Take cuttings in the spring or early summer and root them in water or a moist growing medium. Division can be done in the spring by separating the root clumps and replanting them.

Pruning

Prune oregano regularly to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Trim back the stems after flowering to prevent the plant from becoming leggy. Remove any dead or damaged leaves as needed.

Toxicity

Oregano is not toxic to pets or humans. It is safe to use in culinary applications and poses no known health risks when consumed in typical amounts.

Additional

Oregano can be grown both indoors and outdoors. When growing indoors, ensure it receives ample sunlight by placing it near a south-facing window. Outdoors, it can be planted in garden beds or containers. Regular harvesting of the leaves can promote new growth and enhance the plant's flavor.

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