Origanum vulgare

The common oregano, in Latin Origanum vulgare, is a hardy perennial aromatic plant, also called wild marjoram or perennial marjoram. It should not be confused with marjoram, Origanum majorana, although the medicinal properties of both plants are similar. Oregano is part of the Herbes de Provence. It is a classic ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, especially Italian. It is indispensable for flavoring pizzas. Sowing from March to May.

Native to western and southern Europe, where it grows wild, oregano is a perennial plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family, just like thyme and mint. It forms a fragrant clump about 50cm (20in) tall and wide. Its foliage consists of round to oval, dark green leaves. From June to September, oregano is adorned with pretty pink flowers that may have a purplish hue. It is hardy down to about -17°C (1.4°F).

Oregano is a resilient and easy-to-grow herb. It thrives in sunny locations and prefers poor, light, even rocky, well-drained soils. It is not afraid of limestone. If your soil is rather damp and clayey, we recommend growing it in a pot or on a small mound where it will thrive.

It should be noted that oregano is also known as wild marjoram or red tea, which often leads to confusion with its cousin, garden marjoram or shell marjoram (Origanum majorana), which is less hardy and has a different scent.

Harvest: Oregano is harvested from May to October by cutting off branches with scissors.

Preservation: Oregano is traditionally preserved by drying. This is a simple and quick process that you can replace with freezing if you find it more convenient.

The gardener's tip: In the garden, don't hesitate to mix different types of plants by placing some herbs like oregano in the middle of your perennial flower beds or in rockeries. It looks very pretty, and the sometimes strong scents of aromatic plants often have the ability to repel insects that may attack more delicate plants like certain roses.