Origanum laevigatum 'Herrenhausen'
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ORNAMENTAL OREGANO
Family: Lamiaceae
Pronounced: o-ree-GAH-num lave-eh-GAY-tum
GROWING GUIDE
Geographic Origin:
Garden.
Plant Group:
Herbs.
Hardiness:
Sunset zones: 4-24.
USDA zones: 7-10.
Heat zones: 12-1.
Mature size:
Height: 18-30 inches (45-75cm).
Width: 18 inches (45 cm).
Flowering period:
Summer to autumn.
Flowering attributes:
Maroon buds opening to pink flowers.
Leaf attributes:
Leaves are purple when they first open, then fade to green as they age.
Growth habit:
Clump former.
Light:
Full sun.
Soil:
Well-drained soil.
Feeding:
Fertilize in spring with a complete organic fertilizer.
Propagation Methods:
Divide in spring. | Basal cuttings in late spring.
Pruning Methods:
Deadhead flowers to prolong blooming.
Pests and Diseases:
Aphids and spider mites may pose a problem.
Rainy Side Notes
The bracts of this hybrid are larger than the species. A result of growing in our cool maritime climate is that the new growth is purpler than other warmer areas.
If you like attracting bees, butterflies and other pollinators to your garden, this summer-flowering, fragrant, ornamental herb does the job. It may also be deer resistant, but as with most plants with this label, resistance is futile with some herds.
O. 'Herrenhausen is an excellent cut flower both for fresh use and dried. Harvest when one-third of the flowers on the stem open.
Debra Teachout-Teashon
Photographed in author's garden.
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