Edibles – Herbs – Cuban Oregano

Cuban Oregano

Botanical name: coleus amboinicus 

Beginner friendly?: yes

Average size at maturity: 1-3 ft  in height with a 2-4 ft spread 

Hardy zone: zones 9-10 

Growth rate: grows 1-2 ft per year 

Foliage color: green/yellow/white 

Flower color: purple 

Bloom time:  late winter, spring 

Pruning instructions: prune during the late winter/early spring before new growth begins to emerge to maintain desired shape and size 

Propagation methods: propagate with cuttings during the spring and summer months 

Landscape use: herb garden, edging, container plant 

Special features: culinary herb, heat tolerant, annual herb in zone 8 

Light needs: 4 hours of sun per day 

Watering instructions: allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out between watering sessions 

Fertilizing instructions : use an organic liquid fertilizer once a month throughout the spring and summer seasons 

Best time to plant: spring, fall 

Best type of soil:  loam, sand 

Companion plants: peppers, tomatoes, rosemary, basil

Toxicity level: toxic for pets if ingested, non-toxic for humans 

Invasive species: no