Edibles – Herbs – Italian Oregano

Italian Oregano 

Botanical name: origanum vulgare 

Beginner friendly?: yes

Average size at maturity: 8 inches – 3 ft in height with a 1-2 ft spread 

Hardy zone: zones 4-10 

Foliage color: green

Flower color: white/pink

Bloom time: summer 

Growth rate: can reach fully mature size in 1-2 growing seasons 

Pruning instructions: prune as needed to maintain desired shape and size throughout the spring, summer, and fall months 

Propagation methods: propagate with cuttings in the spring or summer 

Landscape use: herb/edible garden 

Light needs: at least 6 hours of sun per day 

Special features: disease resistant, pest resistant, heat tolerant

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

Fertilizing instructions : use a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the early spring

Best time to plant: spring 

Best type of soil: loam, sand, or potting soil 

Companion plants: thyme, rosemary, sage, basil 

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

Invasive species: no