Oregano

This common oregano is an herb that is grown almost exclusively for culinary use. A rhizomatous, sprawling plant which typically grows to 18" tall with a similar spread. Features pungently aromatic, flavorful, oval, dark green leaves (to 1" long) which are commonly used in cooking as a seasoning. Leaves may be clipped fresh as needed or dried for year-round use. Best leaf flavor usually occurs just prior to flowering, but the quality of flavor can vary considerably from plant to plant. Tiny, white to rosy pink flowers appear in loose, terminal or axillary spikes throughout the summer. Primarily grown in the herb or vegetable garden. If ornamental value is the primary consideration as opposed to culinary use, there are a number of Origanum hybrids and O. vulgare cultivars which display showier flowers and/or more colorful foliage (e.g., see O. Herrenhausen or O. Rosenkuppel).