Oregano - Origanum vulgare (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Oregano

Also known as: Common marjoram

Oregano (Origanum vulgare) is a herbaceous perennial plant closely related to marjoram. Ancient Greeks and Romans considered it a symbol of happiness. It is one of the most popular spice herbs, used in various cuisines all over the world. Oregano oil can be derived from the plant as well. Unfortunately, legal action has been required to stop suppliers of the oil from falsely claiming unproven health benefits.

Scientific classification

Species

Oregano (Origanum vulgare)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial, Annual, Biennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Bloom Time

Late spring

Harvest Time

20 cm to 90 cm

Plant Height

30 cm to 60 cm

Spread

Green, Yellow, Variegated

Leaf Color

3 mm to 4 mm

Flower Size

Brown

Fruit Color

Pink, White, Purple, Violet

Flower Color

Green, Pink

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen, Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Oregano

Distribution of Oregano

Distribution Map

Oregano is native to Asia and Europe, growing on sunny hillsides. The herb is widely cultivated in gardens throughout the world and is naturalized in Mexico and United States.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Calcareous soils

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Economic Value

Aromatic oil can be extracted from the whole plant and be used as an ingredient in distiller’s yeast.

Garden Use

Oregano is a popular herb grown for its culinary use but also pleasant, pink flowers and sprawling growth habit. It can be grown as ground cover, in an herb garden, or in a container. It prefers full sun and well-draining soil for best results.

Symbolism

Happiness, serenity, romance, protection

Interesting Facts

The ancient Greeks believed that cows that grazed on full fields of oregano had tastier meat, contributing to why they referred to the herb as the joy of the mountain. The ancient Greeks also believed that if a person anointed themselves with oregano they would dream of their future husband or future wife.

Name Story

Oregano: The word, oregano is derived from Classical Greek, ὀρίγανον or orī́ganon in which the Spanish version is orégano, and orīganum in latin. This is a compound Greek term that consists of ὄρος (óros) meaning "mountain", and γάνος (gános) meaning "brightness", thus the combined word means "brightness of the mountain".

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Oregano, including the following common varieties :

Oregano 'Aureum'Oregano 'Country Cream'Oregano 'Variegata'Oregano ' Aureum'Oregano 'Compactum'

Toxicity

Oregano is mildly toxic to cats and dogs; ingestion of all plant parts in high amounts can induce symptoms like gastrointestinal upset. If signs of poisoning appear, promptly seek veterinary care.

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Quickly Identify Oregano

Square stems distinguish oregano from other plants, aiding in quick identification.

Clustered purple-pink flowers with a pleasant aroma bloom from mid-summer to fall.

Distinct egg-shaped nutlets, each around 1-1.5 mm in length, differentiate the plant.

Oval, hairy leaves with serrated edges and a visible vein pattern characterize oregano.

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Care Guide for Oregano

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from a Mediterranean climate, oregano thrives in dry, well-drained soil and sunlight. It prefers occasional deep watering twice a week, exhibiting drought tolerance. As an aromatic perennial, it benefits from natural rainfall outdoors, enhancing flavor and essential oil concentration during the growing season.

Fertilize: For oregano, provide balanced fertilizers every 2-4 weeks during growth, using a quarter-strength solution. Pause during dormancy to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to leaf burn or diminished flavor. Adjust application based on the plant's growth response, and follow safety guidelines.

Pruning: Oregano is an aromatic perennial herb often used in cooking. Prune it in early to late spring using sharp tools to foster new growth and bushiness, while avoiding heavy pruning in late fall to prevent frost damage. Regular maintenance enhances productivity and appearance.

Propagation: Oregano is a perennial herb valued for its aromatic leaves. Propagate using healthy stem cuttings with several nodes, planted in well-draining soil. Keep moist and consider rooting hormone for better success. Once rooted, transplant to ensure thriving growth, enhancing culinary dishes.

Repotting: Repot oregano every 2-3 years in spring using well-draining soil and slightly larger pots. Ensure adequate drainage and water lightly post-repotting, placing it in a sunny spot. Regular pruning promotes growth, helping oregano thrive in its new environment.

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Images of Oregano

Distribution of Oregano

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Oregano

Care Guide for Oregano

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