Plants in Your Herb Garden: Oregano

Oregano, also known as pot marjoram or wild marjoram, is a flavorful, slightly bitter herb. There are numerous varieties of this herb, with tow more popular kinds - Common Oregano "Origanum vulgare" (used in more French and Enlgish cooking)or Greek Oregano "O. heracleoticum " (used widely in Mediterranean dishes).

The Greek form of the word oregano means "joy of the mountain". The herb grew on the hillsides of Greece, and was used to flavor goat and sheep dishes. Oregano also means "marjoram" in the Spanish language. The two herbs are closely related, and "marjoram" means "oregano" in much of ancient literature. Ancient English people used crushed oregano in sachets and as a perfume.

This herb is known as a culinary plant, but it also makes a good border plant or groundcover. The woody stems make this a hardy shrub-like herb. The dark green leaves and pointed flowers add variety to your herb garden.

Oregano is frequently found in tomato dishes, and is especially popular in pizza. This herb is also found in many egg, bread, and cheese dishes, as well as in recipes for lamb, pork and beef. Crushing any herb before you add to your recipe increases its flavor. Mexican oregano has a less minty earthy taste, and is great for your Mexican dishes. Add towards the end of cooking, as the herb tends to become bitter of heated too long.

Medicinal uses of this herb include anti-fungal and antiseptic properties. Some people rub the herb in their mouth if they have a toothache. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. (Consult with your physician before using any kind of herb for its medicinal properties.)

Oregano grows easily once established in your garden. It is tolerated well in Zones 5-9. Plant oregano in full sun in well drained soil. This herb can grow up to 12 inches tall, so you may want to place towards the back of your herb garden. Plant 6-12 inches apart so that the plants aren't crowded together.

Leaves can be harvested after the plant grows 4-5 inches tall. Pinch of any flowers so that the plant's energy can go towards the leaves. Pick mid-morning, after the dew has evaporated from the plant. Dried oregano keeps its flavor better than other herbs if kept in a cool, dry, dark space.

For warmer climates, cut back your plants and cover thickly with mulch before winter arrives. In cooler climates, you can try mulching over winter, but depending on conditions, you may want to treat oregano as an annual.