Oregano (Origanum Vulgare) - Start Oregano seeds for this pungently aromatic plant that is one of the most important herbs of Italian, Greek and Mexican cooking. Mainly used dry, the flavor is strong enough to stand up to bold flavors like tomatoes, onion, garlic and beef. Interestingly, the oil is often a little known ingredient in men's colognes. A must-have herb for the kitchen, Oregano is readily established from herb seeds for the kitchen garden.
The Oregano herb is a bushy perennial with attractive, deep purple-brown stems and 1 1/2 inch broadly ovate leaves that often have a red flush. Branched clusters of purple-pink flowers appear all summer. Grows to 18 inches tall and wide. Trim Oregano herb plants back before flowering (6 weeks or so after sowing Oregano seeds) to stimulate a dense growth habit. Allow some of the flowers to produce and drop their seed, and the Oregano patch will stay fresh and vigorous. Remove Oregano plants that are 3 - 4 years of age to keep the harvest quality high. To harvest, clip fresh leaves as needed throughout the growing season. For drying, cut stems with flower heads just before full flowering for the best flavor. Dry on wire racks in a cool, airy place. Pick off leaves and store in an airtight jar.
Season: Perennial
USDA Zones: 5 - 10
Height: 18 inches
Bloom Season: Mid summer
Bloom Color: Pink
Environment: Full sun
In case of late delivery of goods due to weather, strike or other unexpected events.