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Home Page » Home & Garden » Gardening » Golden oregano: Origanum vulgare 'Aureum'

Golden oregano: Origanum vulgare 'Aureum'

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Golden oregano: Origanum vulgare 'Aureum'

In the summer, golden oregano produces spikes of pinkish flowers with whorls of purple-tinged green bracts that attract bees. The clusters of blooms sit on tall red stems above a mat of small, oval, chartreuse, somewhat downy leaves on square stems.

Profile

Plant typeperennial, herb, ground-cover
Hardiness zones5 to 9
Lightfull-sun
Height1 ft. to 3 ft.
Spread1 ft. to 3 ft.
Habitspreading
Bloom timefall, summer
Flower colorpink
Bloom size.5 in. to .5 in.
Foliage colorchartreuse
Foliage size1.5 in. to 1.5 in.

did you know?

Oregano, also called wild marjoram, is a symbol of happiness. Native to the mountainous areas of the Mediterranean, oregano takes its name from the Greek words for "joy of the mountains." It was once used to crown young couples in the hope that it would ensure a long and joyous marriage.

general maintenance:

To maintain shape and herbaceous growth, harvest or pinch regularly all season.

pests/diseases:

Root and fungal disease, spider mites, aphids, and leaf miners may occur.

controls:

To control root and fungal disease, remove and destroy diseased plants, and reduce soil moisture. Hose off spider mites and aphids with a strong stream of water, apply horticultural-oil spray, and use beneficial insect predators. For leaf miners, remove affected leaves.

how to sow/plant:

Sow seed indoors, barely covered with soil, 3 to 4 weeks before last frost. Or start with new plants, cuttings, or root divisions to ensure plants with good fragrance and flavor. Harden off, and transplant 6 inches apart after danger of frost has passed. Water upon planting.

water and fertilize:

Allow soil to dry between watering.

garden hint:

Plant golden oregano with other dark-leafed herbs such as 'Purple Ruffles' basil or purple sage 'Pupurascens' for an attractive contrast.

features:

  • Fragrant

garden uses:

  • Containers
  • Edging
  • Flowerbed borders
  • Ground Cover
  • Rock Garden

other uses:

  • Culinary/Edible (Use in Mediterranean sauces and dishes.)

combine with:

other culinary herbs, such as anise, basil, chives, dill, nasturtium, and parsley in the kitchen garden or in containers.

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