Permapotes

Oregano

Oregano: Sowing, planting and harvest calendar

Oregano is a perennial aromatic herb in the Lamiaceae family, alongside thyme and sage. Common oregano, Origanum vulgare, is one of the most familiar species in gardens and kitchens. The genus also includes Syrian oregano, Origanum syriacum, and sweet marjoram, Origanum majorana. Sweet marjoram is a separate species, although common names sometimes overlap. A familiar culinary name therefore does not always identify exactly the same plant.

Common oregano forms a branching clump with upright stems that can become woody at the base. Its small oval leaves are arranged in opposite pairs. Their scent is particularly noticeable when the foliage is rubbed. The leafy clump has an understated presence during growth, while flowering stems later give it a taller, lighter outline. Both the overall shape and the dimensions vary according to the selection, rather than being fixed for every oregano plant.

Small tubular flowers are grouped towards the tops of the stems. They may be pink, mauve or white, depending on species and variety. The flowers attract bees and butterflies, giving oregano an appeal beyond its aromatic foliage. A flowering clump can belong in a herb garden or in a border combining edible plants with flowers. Its changing appearance provides interest through more than one stage of development.

There are forms with green, golden or variegated leaves, as well as more compact selections. Aureum illustrates golden foliage, while Compactum has a low habit. Other oregano selections are valued mainly for their ornamental appearance. Leaf colour and attractive flowers do not guarantee a particular strength of flavour. Cold hardiness also varies: the resilience of common oregano should not automatically be assumed for every species in the genus.

In the kitchen, oregano generally has a strong, warm and sometimes mildly peppery aroma, recalling some of the notes associated with thyme. Sweet marjoram often tastes gentler. These differences also depend on the individual plant and its development. Fresh and dried leaves offer different expressions of the same herb, rather than an aroma that remains entirely unchanged.

Oregano complements pizzas, tomato sauces, pasta, salads and grilled dishes. It also appears in marinades, cooked vegetables and cheese dishes. Its aromatic character brings simple ingredients together, helping explain its place in many Mediterranean cuisines.

Oregano
Oregano
Characteristics
  • Lifecycle : Perennial
  • Exposure : Full Sun
  • Frost Hardiness : Frost Resistant
  • Cultivation Difficulty : Easy
  • Mature height : 60 cm
Sowing & Planting
  • Greenhouse Growing : Not Required
  • Plant Spacing : 30 cm
  • Row Spacing : 30 cm
Maintenance
  • Maintenance : Low
  • Water Requirements : Low
Other characteristics
  • Soil Type : Sandy
  • Soil pH Preference : Neutral
  • Pest Sensitivity : Moderate
  • Disease Sensitivity : Moderate
  • Weed Sensitivity : Low
  • Pollination : Insect-pollinated
  • Propagation : Sowing