Oregano Origanum vulgare 'Compactum'
ABOUT
The plant known as common oregano, specifically the 'Compactum' variety, is a perennial herb that is notably lush and dense in its growth habit. It features a profusion of small, oval to round leaves that are often a deep green hue, with a somewhat fuzzy texture that is pleasant to the touch. These leaves are richly aromatic, releasing a strong, earthy scent that is characteristic of this culinary and medicinal herb. During the flowering season, common oregano 'Compactum' becomes adorned with clusters of tiny, tubular flowers. These blossoms are typically a soft purplish-pink color, creating a delicate contrast with the verdant greenery. The flowers are borne on erect stems that rise slightly above the foliage, attracting various pollinators, including bees and butterflies, to the garden. This plant is admired for its dense, ground-covering nature, making it not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical for filling spaces in garden beds and borders. Its trailing stems and robust growth can spill over containers and rockeries, adding a touch of rustic charm to the landscape. With its delightful aroma and attractive appearance, common oregano 'Compactum' is a choice plant for those looking to add both visual interest and functionality to their gardens, as it is commonly used as a culinary herb to flavor a variety of dishes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Dwarf Oregano, Compact Oregano, Wild Marjoram, Greek Oregano
Common names
Origanum heracleoticum, Origanum smyrnaeum, Thymus origanum, Origanum vulgare.
ToxicityTo humans
Oregano is not toxic to humans when consumed in typical culinary quantities, and Origanum vulgare 'Compactum' is a variety of common oregano. Generally recognized as safe to consume, oregano is commonly used as an herb in cooking. However, consuming it in excessive amounts might lead to gastrointestinal upset, but serious toxicity is unlikely.
To pets
Oregano is not considered highly toxic to pets, but it can cause mild stomach upset if ingested in significant quantities. If a pet consumes a large amount of oregano, they may experience vomiting or diarrhea. It is advisable to use caution and prevent pets from ingesting large amounts of any herbs, including oregano.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
1 foot (30 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5-9
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Culinary Uses: The compact variety of Oregano, Origanum vulgare 'Compactum', is commonly used in cooking for its strong, pungent flavor which enhances a variety of dishes, particularly Italian cuisine.
- Easy to Grow: This plant is hardy and adaptable, making it relatively easy for beginners to grow in a variety of conditions, including poor soil.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it is very drought-resistant, requiring minimal watering and suitable for xeriscaping.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, promoting pollination in the garden.
- Compact Growth: Its compact growth form makes it suitable for small spaces, borders, and containers.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The plant has attractive foliage and flowers which can provide visual interest in a garden setting.
- Herb Garden Staple: A popular choice for herb gardens due to its culinary value and ease of growth.
- Perennial Lifespan: Being a perennial, it will return year after year, providing a long-term addition to the garden.
- Scented Foliage: The leaves emit a pleasant aroma which can help to create an aromatic environment in outdoor spaces.
- Ground Cover: Can serve as a ground cover due to its spreading habit, helping to reduce weed growth.
- Culinary Diversity: Its leaves can be used fresh or dried, offering flexibility in how it's used in recipes.
Medical Properties- Antimicrobial: Oregano has been traditionally used for its antimicrobial properties, helping to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi.
- Antioxidant: Rich in phenolic compounds and flavonoids, oregano offers antioxidant benefits that can help protect the body from oxidative stress.
- Anti-inflammatory: Compounds in oregano, such as carvacrol, may provide anti-inflammatory effects.
- Expectorant: Oregano has been used to help relieve respiratory conditions by aiding in the expulsion of phlegm.
- Antispasmodic: It may help alleviate spasms in the muscles and the gastrointestinal tract.
- Digestive aid: Oregano has been used to improve digestion and to relieve symptoms of gastrointestinal discomfort.
- Menstrual aid: The herb has traditionally been used to help regulate menstrual cycles and alleviate symptoms associated with menstruation.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Natural dye: Oregano can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, offering a range of colors from yellow to brown depending on the mordant used.
- Companion planting: Gardeners often plant oregano near their vegetables as it can help to repel certain pests and encourage beneficial insects.
- Livestock feed: Some farmers add oregano to the diet of their chickens or other livestock believing it could contribute positively to their overall health.
- Ornamental use: 'Compactum' is a lower growing variety of oregano, which makes it particularly suitable for ornamental purposes in rock gardens, borders, or as ground cover.
- Preserving agent: Oregano leaves contain natural compounds that can help preserve food, and thus, it can be used in the preservation process of meats and pickles.
- Mold deterrent: The oil extracted from oregano has been used in natural cleaning solutions to help deter the growth of molds and bacteria.
- Crafting: Dried oregano stems can be woven into decorative ornaments or wreaths, especially during the fall for a natural rustic look.
- Natural insect repellent: Oregano plants around the home can repel certain insects, and its essential oil is often used in homemade insect repellent recipes.
- Firewood additive: Dried oregano can be thrown into a fire to release a pleasant aroma, enhancing the atmosphere during bonfires or in fireplaces.
- Flavoring for homemade liquors: Infusing oregano in homemade spirits can give them a unique and aromatic flavour profile.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiOregano is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityOregano is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Peace: Origanum vulgare 'Compactum', commonly known as Oregano, is often associated with peace due to its calming scent and the tranquility it brings to the garden.
- Happiness: Oregano is symbolic of happiness as it is believed to bring joy to the home and garden.
- Protection: Oregano has historical ties to protection, with some cultures placing it around their homes to guard against negative energies.
- Health: Known for its medicinal properties, oregano represents good health and is often used in traditional remedies.
- Love: In ancient times, oregano was often used in love spells and rituals, symbolizing love and affection.
WaterThe common name for Origanum vulgare 'Compactum' is Dwarf Oregano, and it should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which is typically once every 7 to 10 days, depending on the climate and the environment it's growing in. Provide water slowly and deeply until it begins to run out of the bottom of the pot, ensuring that the entire root ball is moistened. It's vital not to overwater Dwarf Oregano, as this can lead to root rot. Depending on the pot size and the environmental conditions, you might use from 8 to 16 ounces of water for smaller pots or up to 2 gallons for larger ones. Adjust the amount based on the weather conditions, with more water during hot, dry periods, and less during cooler, damp spells.
LightDwarf Oregano thrives in a location that receives full sun for at least 6 to 8 hours a day. The ideal spot for this plant is a south-facing window indoors, or an unobstructed, sunny outdoor area. It can tolerate some light shade, especially in very hot climates, but the best growth and flavor development occur in strong, direct light.
TemperatureDwarf Oregano prefers a temperate range and grows best in temperatures between 60°F and 80°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to around 45°F, but frost can damage the plant. Maximum temperatures for good growth should not exceed 90°F. Ensure that Dwarf Oregano is protected from extreme cold and hot temperatures to maintain its health and vigor.
PruningPruning Dwarf Oregano is necessary to encourage bushy growth and prevent legginess. It should be pruned in the spring to remove any dead or damaged stems and again after flowering to maintain a compact shape. Regular pinching back of the tips during the growing season also promotes fuller growth. The best time for pruning is late spring or early summer, avoiding the colder months when the plant is less active.
CleaningAs needed
SoilOregano 'Compactum' thrives in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0. A good soil mix for this herb contains equal parts of loam, sand, and peat moss. Adding perlite or coarse sand enhances drainage, critical for preventing root rot and promoting healthy growth.
RepottingOregano 'Compactum' should be replanted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. It’s best to repot in the spring before new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingOregano 'Compactum' prefers a dry climate and is tolerant of low humidity levels. It thrives in average room humidity. Do not place in highly humid environments as this can encourage fungal disease.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide full sun, well-draining soil, and occasional water.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, water when dry.
Hardiness zone
4-10 USDA
Life cycleOregano 'Compactum' (Origanum vulgare 'Compactum') begins its life as a seed, which, when sown in fertile, well-draining soil and given appropriate warmth and moisture, germinates typically within one to two weeks. Upon successful germination, the seedling emerges and establishes itself with a set of true leaves, ready to harness sunlight and nutrients. Transitioning into the vegetative stage, the plant focuses on leafy growth, developing a compact, bushy structure with sturdy stems and aromatic leaves. This perennial herb then enters the flowering phase, typically in the summer, producing small, pink to purplish flowers that attract pollinators, ultimately leading to seed formation if the flowers are successfully pollinated. After flowering, oregano 'Compactum' may undergo a period of dormancy, particularly in regions with colder winters, shedding some leaves and reducing metabolic activity until the return of favorable conditions in spring. The plant can perennially repeat this cycle for several years, provided it's in a conducive environment and receives proper care like pruning to promote new growth and prevent woodiness.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Oregano (Origanum vulgare 'Compactum') is often propagated by cuttings or division, which is a common and effective method for this particular cultivar. Typically, the best time to propagate is in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate oregano by cuttings, one should select a healthy stem and cut a 4- to 6-inch section (about 10 to 15 centimeters), just below a leaf node. The lower leaves are then removed, and the cutting is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The prepared cutting is then placed in a pot filled with a moistened mixture of equal parts peat and perlite or sand. It's important to keep the soil consistently moist and to place the pot in a warm area with indirect sunlight. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, at which point the new oregano plant can be transplanted to a permanent location.
