Plants in genus origanum
Origanum vulgare
Origanum vulgare, commonly known as oregano, is a traditional herb with a milder flavor compared to the True Greek variety. It produces pink to lavender flowers from midsummer to fall and can be used fresh or dried for culinary and medicinal purposes. This versatile plant is a staple in herb gardens.
Origanum majorana
Origanum majorana, commonly known as marjoram, is a perennial herb with a milder yet more complex flavor than oregano. It is a popular ingredient in German sausage and herb breads, adding a unique taste to culinary dishes. This plant is drought-tolerant and deer-resistant, making it a resilient choice for gardeners. Origanum majorana is typically grown as an annual in USDA zones 9 and 10. Its ability to withstand various environmental conditions makes it a versatile addition to any herb garden. This plant is a great option for those looking to add a touch of flavor to their cooking.
Origanum laevigatum
Origanum laevigatum is an upright oregano native to Cyprus, Syria, and Turkey, ideal for rock gardens or walls. It features small round leaves and violet flowers, with pink funnel-shaped blooms and purple bracts in summer. This woody-based perennial is strongly aromatic and used both as a culinary herb and ornamental plant. It tolerates poor soil but dislikes winter wetness.
Origanum vulgare 'Compactum Nanum'
Origanum vulgare 'Compactum Nanum' is a fragrant groundcover known for its aromatic foliage. It is a perennial that attracts butterflies and is rabbit resistant. This plant thrives in sunny locations and is well-suited for rain gardens.
Origanum laevigatum 'Pilgrim'
Origanum laevigatum 'Pilgrim' is a hybrid oregano with glaucous-green leaves and lavender-purple flowers that bloom in late June. This plant is known for its fragrant culinary foliage and ability to attract insects. It forms a clump about 3 feet wide and 2 feet tall, thriving in well-drained soils.
Origanum 'Herrenhausen'
Origanum 'Herrenhausen' is a creeping oregano variety known for its red-violet flowers, making it suitable for rock walls and garden borders. This plant is attractive to butterflies and thrives in full sun, adding a splash of color to sunny areas. Its ability to resist rabbits and its suitability for rain gardens make it a versatile choice for various garden settings.
Origanum laevigatum 'Hopleys Purple'
Origanum laevigatum 'Hopleys Purple' is a perennial herb known for its arching stalks of round green leaves and sprays of violet-colored flowers in summer. This plant is a great choice for rock walls or perennial borders, attracting butterflies and adding a splash of color to gardens. It thrives in sunny locations and is resistant to rabbits, making it a durable and attractive addition to any garden setting. Its vibrant flowers and aromatic foliage make it a favorite among gardeners looking for both beauty and utility.
Origanum vulgare 'Dr Ietswaart'
Origanum vulgare 'Dr Ietswaart' is a low-growing perennial with golden yellow leaves and a mild fragrance. It forms a wide patch, reaching up to 3 feet across, and produces pale lavender flower spikes in midsummer. This plant is both deer and rabbit resistant, making it a hardy choice for gardens. It attracts butterflies and other beneficial insects, adding life to your garden. The plant is drought-tolerant and suitable for rock gardens and xeriscaping. Its evergreen nature ensures year-round interest.
Origanum vulgare 'Variegata'
Origanum vulgare 'Variegata' is a unique marjoram with striking green and gold variegated leaves, ideal for use as groundcover. It thrives in sunny locations and is well-suited for rock gardens or perennial borders. This perennial is known for attracting butterflies and is resistant to rabbits, making it a low-maintenance addition to any garden. It can also be used in rain gardens and is tolerant of a wide range of climates, from zones 3 to 10. The plant's aromatic foliage adds a sensory element to garden spaces.
Origanum 'Drops Of Jupiter'
Origanum 'Drops Of Jupiter' is a hybrid oregano with golden foliage and a vibrant floral display. It forms a 2-foot tall by 3-foot wide patch and produces violet flowers from early summer, attracting a variety of pollinators.
Origanum 'Kent Beauty'
Origanum 'Kent Beauty' is a hybrid ornamental oregano with glaucous green leaves and pendulous pink flower heads. It grows to about 10 inches tall and is often used in summer containers for its decorative appeal.
Origanum laevigatum 'Lizzie'
Origanum laevigatum 'Lizzie' is a vigorous hybrid plant with fragrant foliage and mauvy lavender flowers that bloom in mid-June. It attracts various insects and is known for its culinary quality, making it a versatile addition to gardens and herb collections.
Origanum vulgare 'Aureum'
Origanum vulgare 'Aureum' is a creeping form of oregano with golden, fragrant foliage. It is suitable for use as a ground cover or in rock gardens, and its aromatic leaves can be used in cooking. This plant thrives in sunny locations and is a delightful addition to any garden, offering both visual appeal and culinary uses.