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Oregano

English
  • Vegetables and herbs
Oregano (Origanum vulgare)
Photo: Jardin botanique de Montréal (Josée Bouthot)
Origanum vulgare
  • Origanum vulgare
  • Origanum vulgare

Onglets

Botany

Origin and description

Oregano is native to Eurasia. It is closely related to marjoram (Origanum majorana). It is highly aromatic, with a pungent, slightly sour taste, and is a key ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine. Its scent and flavour are somewhat similar to mint and basil. It is especially fragrant when grown in full sun.
Cycle: Perennial.
Width: 45 cm.
Height: 60 cm.

Species, cultivars and related plants

The cultivar ‘Aureum’ has golden foliage and is propagated by cuttings. Other cultivars have different tastes, being more or less strong and spicy.

Common name

Oregano

Latin name (genus)

Origanum vulgare

English common name

Oregano

French common name

Origan

Botanical family

  • Lamiaceae
Horticulture

Growing conditions

Full sun.

Propagation

Seedlings: inside in March–April.

Division in spring.

Use

Culinary uses: fresh or dried leaves

See also

Pests and diseases
Physiological disorders