Oregano

Pungently aromatic, Oregano (Origanum Vulgare) is one of the most important herbs of Italian, Greek and Mexican cooking. Mainly used dry, the flavor is strong enough to stand up to bold flavors like tomatoes, onion, garlic and beef. Interestingly, the oil is often a little known ingredient in men's colognes.

Oregano is a bushy perennial with pretty deep purple-brown stems and 1 1/2 inch broadly ovate leaves that often have a red flush. Branched clusters of purple-pink flowers appear all summer. Grows to 18 inches tall and wide.

Can start indoors in a sunny location 6 weeks prior to transplanting outdoors or sow seeds in well-drained to dry, neutral to alkaline soil in full sun after danger of last frost is over. Performs best in rows 18" apart. Thin plants 12 inches apart when they are 2 inches tall. Clip leaves throughout the growing season and use fresh or dried.

Season: Perennial
Zones: 5 - 10
Height: 18 inches
Bloom Color: Pink/Lavender
Bloom Season: Mid Summer
Environment: Full Sun, Moist but Well Drained
Approximate Seeds Per Ounce: 250,000

Approximately 1/2 oz covers 2000 square feet.