Also known as Oregano · 657 saves
Origanum
Origanum, the genus most gardeners know as oregano. We track 16 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 16 most-saved Origanum varieties
3 species of Origanum
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Origanum in Sow
Save the Origanum you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Origanum
Whats common across all Origanum varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 16 most-grown of them.
The Origanum year
- PruneMarch, August and September100% of varieties
Cut back old, woody stems to the ground in late winter for rejuvenation
- DivideApril, May and October75% of varieties
Divide congested clumps every 3-5 years to maintain vigor
- HarvestJune–October69% of varieties
Harvest leaves frequently before flowering for best flavor.
- FertilizeApril38% of varieties
Apply a light, balanced fertilizer only if soil is poor
- PlantApril, May, October and November31% of varieties
Plant transplants in well-drained soil during spring or early fall
Do
- Water when soil feels dry 🌱
- Water sparingly once established 💧
- Prune after flowering to encourage bushiness ✂️
- Water in dry spells 🌱
- Prune to shape and promote bushiness ✂️
Avoid
- Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
- Allow soil to stay soggy
- Neglect pruning after flowering
- Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
What goes wrong with Origanum
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted leaves | Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap |
| Spider Mites | Fine webbing and speckled leaves | Use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil |
| Spider mites | Fine webbing on the woolly foliage and stippling on leaves, especially under dry, stressed indoor conditions. | Increase air circulation and isolate affected plants; treat with insecticidal soap if safe for woolly leaves, or wash off gently with water if the plant can dry quickly. |
| Root rot | Wilting and yellowing leaves | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| Root rot | Wilting and browning of plant | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| Root Rot | Wilting and yellowing leaves | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| Powdery Mildew | White powder on leaves | Apply organic fungicide and ensure good airflow |
Making more Origanum
Cuttings
- Take 4-inch cuttings in spring.
- Dip in rooting hormone and plant in moist soil.
- Maintain humidity for 6 weeks.
Seed
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
- Keep soil moist for germination, approx. 2 weeks.
Origanum questions
How many types of Origanum are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 16 distinct Origanum varieties. The most popular — ranked by 657 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Origanum grow in?
Across its varieties, Origanum covers USDA Zones 4–10. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Origanum bloom?
Most Origanum varieties bloom in summer, summer to fall, late summer. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Origanum should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.