Oregano
Also called Wild marjoram.
| Light | full sun |
|---|---|
| Water | Every 10 days in the growing season, every 21 in winter |
| Humidity | medium |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Height | Up to 50 cm (20 in) tall |
| Pets | Cats toxic, dogs toxic |
Source: ASPCA Animal Poison Control, toxic and non-toxic plants, Oregano (Origanum vulgare hirtum) entry.
Edible here means commonly eaten. Nothing on this site is medical or dietary advice.
Toxic to cats and dogs if chewed. The ASPCA lists Greek oregano, Origanum vulgare hirtum, the form this entry recommends, as toxic to cats and dogs. It has no entry for the wild species, so the journal gives the cautious answer for both. Keep it where an animal that eats houseplants cannot reach it, and speak to a vet if one does. In South Africa telephone the Poison Information Helpline on 0861 555 777; in the US, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435.
Oregano is thyme’s larger cousin and is grown the same way: hard, dry and in full sun. The Greek form, sold as Origanum vulgare hirtum, is the one with the flavour people expect; the ordinary wild marjoram of hedgerows is milder and prettier in flower. Both spread by running roots, so a plant in a border becomes a patch, and a plant in a pot needs dividing every second or third spring. Cut it back by half after flowering to keep it dense. The one thing that spoils it is kindness: rich compost and regular feeding give a lush plant whose leaves taste of almost nothing.
Ailments observed
| Long bare stems and pale new leaves | Shade, or a plant that has not been cut back. Trim hard after flowering and give it the sunniest spot you have. |
|---|---|
| A soft or mushy base to the stem | Winter wet. Grit, drainage, and shelter from rain rather than from cold. |
Filed underPlants that forgive a beginner, Plants for infrequent watering
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