Find a plant:

OR Browse All Plants


{name}

Genus Origanum (Marjoram, Oregano)

Origanum Origanum laevigatum 'Herrenhausen' Photo/Illustration: Jennifer Benner
oh-RIG-an-um Common Name: Marjoram, Oregano
The genus Origanum contains summer-flowering, aromatic perennials and subshrubs from the mountains of the Mediterranean and southwestern Asia. The 2-lipped flowers have showy bracts partially enclosing them, and they last for many weeks in summer. Several species are used as culinary herbs, while other species belong in a rock garden, border, or alpine house. Origanum attracts bees, butterflies, and other insects.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Aromatic leaves, some with culinary uses. Long-lasting flowers in summer. Attracts bees and butterflies.
 Care: Site in full sun and poor to moderately fertile soil. Origanum needs well-drained soil, and some species resent winter moisture. If grown for foliage, trim plants back before flowering.
 Propagation: Start seed indoors at 50-55°F in spring or in a cold frame in autumn. Also can be propagated by division in spring or by basal cuttings in late spring.
 Problems: Fairly trouble-free, but root rot, stem rot, aphids, and spider mites can sometimes be problems.

Species, varieties and cultivars for genus Origanum

Origanum laevigatum and cvs. Origanum laevigatum and cvs.
(Marjoram, Oregano) Be the first to rate this plant
Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

This plant is a creeping perennial that reaches 24 inches tall. Dark green leaves have a rich purple tint, and its purplish pink flower clusters appear from late spring through autumn. ‘Herrenhausen’ (Zones 5–8) displays masses of showy pink flowers with maroon bracts on purplish stems. ‘Hopleys’ (Zones 7–10) is taller (up to 36 inches) with large, long-blooming, deep pink flowers, and is a vigorous grower, more tolerant of heat than ‘Herrenhausen’.
Origanum vulgare 'Aureum’ Origanum vulgare 'Aureum’
(Golden oregano) Be the first to rate this plant
Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

Golden oregano is a robust creeper with tiny, rounded leaves 1/2 to 1 inch wide. Small, pink or lavender to purple flowers stand out above the foliage in early to late summer.