“Sprucing Up Your Garden: A Guide to Cultivating Ornamental Oregano”

Ornamental oregano, also known as Origanum spp., is a type of plant that is primarily cultivated for its aesthetic appeal rather than its taste. It boasts an array of different textures and hues, making it an excellent addition to any garden. Its unique pink flowers are especially eye-catching, blooming beautifully from the start of spring all the way through to autumn. You can even preserve the plant’s beauty by incorporating its stems into your dried flower arrangements.

Ornamental oregano, a perennial plant belonging to the Origanum genus, is similar to culinary oregano. There are about 20 species of this plant, which are often grown as annuals in areas with USDA Zones 5 and lower. These low-growing plants are generally 6-10 inches tall and 12-24 inches wide, but some cultivars can grow up to 24 inches tall. They have flowers that are commonly referred to as bracts, seed cones, or strobiles. Ornamental oregano thrives best in rock gardens or patio containers and makes for great hanging baskets or trailing plants. It is also an ideal choice for gardeners who face deer problems, as they do not like the fragrance, and for those dealing with drought conditions. To propagate this plant, it is best to grow by seed, although it can also be grown from stem cuttings or division. Ornamental oregano plants require full sun, alkaline soil, and minimal fertilization. They are pest and disease-free, but overwatering can lead to root rot. There are various types of ornamental oregano, including Kent Beauty, Kirigami, Drops of Jupiter, and Herrenhausen, which have distinct features and grow in different hardiness zones.