Your edible garden

How to grow delicious vegetables, herbs, and fruit at home

9 indispensable herbs

How to grow basil, cilantro, chives, and more essential culinary herbs

Thomas J. Story

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Oregano (Origanum)

Oregano: Shrubby plant with 1 1/2-inch-long leaves grows 2 to 3 feet tall. Perennial. Zones vary.

Best culinary varieties: Greek (O. vulgare hirtum) has gray green leaves; zones 8-9, 12-24. Italian (O. x majoricum) has milder bright green leaves; zones 4-24.

Growing tip: Needs especially good drainage. Plants thrive on little to moderate water.

Harvest tip: Oil is strongest when the plant is in bud but before flowers open. Cut back to 4 inches tall in late spring, summer, and fall.

Uses: Beans, cheeses, eggs, meats, pastas, salsas, sauces, soups, stews, and vegetables.