Oregano

Oregano is the name given to many species of perennial herb belonging to the genus Origanum, including the major species Origanum vulgare which is grown for its leaves which are commonly used as a herb in cooking. Oregano plants can be woody or herbaceous and possess multiple branching stems. The leaves are oval or round and are arranged alternately on the stems. The plants produce small pink, purple or white flowers and small oval, brown fruits and can reach up to 1 m (3.3 ft) in height. Oregano is perennial and can be grown for 3–4 years but is commonly grown as an annual in northern climates. Oregano may also be referred to as European oregano or wild marjoram and originated from the Mediterranean.


The leaves of the oregano plant are used fresh or dried as a herb in cooking. They may also be dried and used to extract essential oil which is used in soaps or as flavorings in wines and liqueurs.


Basic requirements Oregano is a temperate or subtropical plant and will grow best in ample sunlight but can also be grown in partial shade. The plant grows best in light, well-draining soil with a pH of 4.5–8.7. Oregano will tolerate some cold but will grow best when the annual temperature does not fall below 15°C (59°F). Propagation Oregano can be grown from seeds, cuttings or by division or layering. Vegetative propagation is best for conserving desirable characteristics. Seeds Oregano seeds can be planted indoors to produce transplants or direct seeded. When direct seeding, seeds should be sown in rows spaced 50–60 cm (19–24 in) apart with seedlings thinned to allow 20 cm (8 in) between plants. Seeds will germinate in 4 days at a temperature of 21°C (70°F). Cuttings Root divisions and cuttings are best taken in late Spring when plant growth is at a maximum. Softwood cuttings taken from the new plant growth are quickest to root. Remove portions of stem 7.6–12.7 cm (3–5 in) in length using a sharp knife. Cut the stem at a 45° angle. Plant the cuttings in a light potting medium such as peat moss and vermiculite and keep moist until rooted. General care and maintenance Oregano grows very vigorously and requires little care. When the plant has reached approximately 15 cm (6 in) in height, pinching the growing tips will encourage the plant to branch. Oregano may be fertilized on a yearly basis with a balanced fertilizer. Once established, oregano requires little water. Supplemental irrigation may be applied during very dry spells. Divide established plants every few years to promote productivity and prevent the plant from becoming woody. Harvesting Organo is best harvested just before flowering. The entire plant can be harvested by clipping the branches to leave only the lowest set of leaves. The leaves can be used fresh or they can be dried for longer storage. The clipped plant will begin to set out new growth within 2 weeks of harvest.


Herb Society of America (2005). Oregano & marjoram. An Herb Society of America Fact Sheet. Available at: http://www.herbsociety.org/factsheets/oregano.pdf. [Accessed 03 March 15]. Free to access. Savio, Y. & Robinson, C. (1998). Oregano, winter marjoram, wild marjoram, pot marjoram. In: Speciality and Minor Crops Handbook. Chapter available at: http://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/sustainag/extn_pub/veggie%20pubs/Oregano,%20Winter%20Marjoram,%20Wild%20Marjoram,%20Pot%20Marjoram.pdf. [Accessed 03 March 15]. Chapter free to access, entire publication available to purchase from Univ of California Agriculture & Natural Resources.