What is Ornamental Oregano?
Ornamental oregano is a type of herb that is grown for its beautiful flowers and foliage, rather than for its culinary uses. It is a member of the mint family and is related to common oregano, but it has a milder flavor. Ornamental oregano is often used in landscaping because it is easy to grow and attracts pollinators.
Varieties of Ornamental Oregano
There are many different varieties of ornamental oregano, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular varieties include:
- Dittany of Crete: This variety has tiny flowers and large, colorful bracts that resemble crepe paper.
- Kent Beauty: This variety was the first ornamental oregano to be available in the trade. It has showy bracts that overlap and look like pinecone scales.
- Pilgrim: This variety has upright stems with rosy-pink flowers.
- Amethyst Falls: This variety has cascading stems with hot pink blooms and purple bracts.
- Limelight: This variety has lime green bracts.
- Golden Falls: This variety has variegated bracts that are green and gold.
Growing Ornamental Oregano
Ornamental oregano is a relatively easy plant to grow. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant and does not require a lot of water. Ornamental oregano can be grown in the ground or in containers.
To grow ornamental oregano in the ground:
- Choose a planting site that receives full sun to partial shade.
- Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage.
- Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the plant.
- Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets.
- Water the plant deeply.
To grow ornamental oregano in a container:
- Choose a container that is at least 12 inches in diameter and has drainage holes.
- Fill the container with a well-drained potting mix.
- Plant the oregano in the center of the container and water deeply.
- Place the container in a location that receives full sun to partial shade.
Caring for Ornamental Oregano
Ornamental oregano is a low-maintenance plant that does not require a lot of care. However, there are a few things you can do to keep your plants healthy and looking their best:
- Water: Water your ornamental oregano plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilize: Fertilize your ornamental oregano plants once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Deadhead: Deadhead your ornamental oregano plants by removing spent flowers. This will encourage new growth and flowering.
- Overwinter: In cold climates, ornamental oregano plants can be overwintered indoors. Bring the plants indoors before the first frost and place them in a sunny location. Water the plants sparingly over the winter.
Benefits of Growing Ornamental Oregano
There are many benefits to growing ornamental oregano in your garden. Ornamental oregano is:
- Beautiful: Ornamental oregano has beautiful flowers and foliage that can add color and interest to your garden.
- Attracts pollinators: Ornamental oregano is a magnet for pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
- Easy to grow: Ornamental oregano is a relatively easy plant to grow and does not require a lot of care.
- Versatile: Ornamental oregano can be grown in the ground or in containers, making it a great choice for any garden.
Long-Tail Keyword Questions and Answers
Q: How do I grow ornamental oregano in a container?
A: To grow ornamental oregano in a container, choose a container that is at least 12 inches in diameter and has drainage holes. Fill the container with a well-drained potting mix and plant the oregano in the center. Water deeply and place the container in a location that receives full sun to partial shade.
Q: What is the best way to care for ornamental oregano?
A: Ornamental oregano is a low-maintenance plant that does not require a lot of care. Water your plants regularly, fertilize them once a month during the growing season, and deadhead spent flowers. In cold climates, bring your plants indoors before the first frost and place them in a sunny location.
Q: Which varieties of ornamental oregano are the most colorful?
A: Some of the most colorful varieties of ornamental oregano include Dittany of Crete, Kent Beauty, Pilgrim, Amethyst Falls, Limelight, and Golden Falls.
Q: Where can I find ornamental oregano plants for sale?
A: You can find ornamental oregano plants for sale at most garden centers and nurseries. You can also purchase plants online.
Q: What are the benefits of growing ornamental oregano in my garden?
A: There are many benefits to growing ornamental oregano in your garden. Ornamental oregano is beautiful, attracts pollinators, is easy to grow, and is versatile.
