All about herbs
• Dill (Anethum graveolens)
• Tarragon, French tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus)
• Chives
• Mint (Mentha)
• Basil (Ocimum)
• Oregano (Origanum)
• Sweet marjoram, Origanum majorana (Majorana hortensis)
• Parsley
• Rosemary (Rosemarinus officinalis)
• Sage (Salvia officinalis 'Berggarten')
• Winter savory (Satureja montana)
• Thyme, Common thyme (Thymus vulgarus)
 
Back To:
All about herbs

Design Assistant
Get inspired with thousands of photos from Sunset and more of your favorite magazines
Rooms
Room Detail
Solutions
CONTESTS &
EVENTS
Visit our Marketplace
Sunset Wine Club
Special Events
Tour Our Idea Houses
Travel Getaways
and Deals
    
Oregano (Origanum)
Scott Atkinson
Origanum
Oregano (Origanum)
Quick facts and care essentials

• Perennial
• Zones vary by species
• Full sun
• Little water

A perennial herb that grows best in Zones 1-24, 30-45, oregano is popular in Italian, Greek, and Spanish cooking. Use its leaves fresh or dried. Many kinds are available; of these, Greek oregano is considered one of the most flavorful. The plants reach 2 1/2 feet tall and spread at a moderate rate by underground stems. Set them out 1 1/2 to 2 feet apart; keep flowers cut back to encourage bushiness.

Published: January 1999