Herrenhausen Oregano Origanum laevigatum 'Herrenhausen'
ABOUT
Origanum laevigatum 'Herrenhausen', known commonly as the Herrenhausen ornamental oregano, is a perennial herb that is prized for its decorative qualities in a garden setting. This plant is characterized by its sprawling habit and the texture of its foliage, which can be described as both robust and delicate in nature. The leaves of Herrenhausen ornamental oregano are typically oval-shaped with a slightly wrinkled surface, creating an interesting texture. They exhibit a rich green color that contrasts well with other plants in the garden. Over time, as the seasons change, these leaves might take on purplish hues that add to the ornamental value of the plant. One of the most striking features of the Herrenhausen ornamental oregano is its flowers. The blossoms are small yet plentiful, and they form clusters of tiny, tubular flowers that appear in various shades of pink and mauve. These flowers are particularly loved by pollinators such as bees and butterflies, adding to the ecological benefits of including this plant in your garden. Apart from the leaves and flowers, the stems of the Herrenhausen ornamental oregano also contribute to its overall appearance. The stems are slender and can have a trailing or spreading tendency, which allows them to intermingle gracefully with nearby plants, creating a natural, cottage garden look. The combination of foliage texture, leaf color, and the profusion of delicate flowers makes the Herrenhausen ornamental oregano a charming addition to any garden space where its aesthetic qualities can be appreciated. It often serves as an excellent ground cover or border plant, adding a splash of color and texture amongst other garden elements.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Herrenhausen Oregano, Ornamental Marjoram
Common names
Origanum vulgare subsp. virens, Origanum vulgare var. virens.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant Origanum laevigatum 'Herrenhausen', commonly known as ornamental oregano, is not considered toxic to humans. This herb is often used in cooking and has no known adverse effects when ingested in typical culinary amounts. However, consuming large amounts of any plant can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's fiber content or individual sensitivities.
To pets
Ornamental oregano is not typically toxic to pets. It is a variety often grown for decorative purposes, and while it is related to the culinary oregano, it is not generally considered dangerous if pets consume small quantities of it. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion in significant amounts can potentially lead to mild gastrointestinal irritation including vomiting or diarrhea due to the fiber content or individual pet sensitivities. It is always best to monitor pets around plants and discourage them from eating ornamental varieties, as individual animals may react differently.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Semi-deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: The plant's flowers are a food source for bees and other beneficial insects, supporting local ecosystems.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it requires less water, making it suitable for xeriscaping or areas with water restrictions.
- Low Maintenance: It has minimal requirements for fertilizers and pruning, which saves time and effort for gardeners.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its purple flowers and aromatic foliage, it adds color, texture, and fragrance to gardens and landscapes.
- Culinary Use: The leaves can be used as a seasoning in cooking, bringing a unique flavor to various dishes.
- Deer Resistant: It is not a preferred food source for deer, so it's less likely to be damaged in areas with deer populations.
Medical Properties- Antimicrobial: Origanum laevigatum 'Herrenhausen' may possess antimicrobial properties due to the presence of phenolic compounds, commonly found in the Origanum genus, that can inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi.
- Antioxidant: The plant could have antioxidant properties given that many species in the Origanum genus are known for their high levels of antioxidants which help in protecting cells from oxidative damage.
- Anti-inflammatory: It could also offer anti-inflammatory effects, owing to compounds like rosmarinic acid which are found in various Origanum species and have demonstrated anti-inflammatory potential.
- Carminative: Traditionally, the genus Origanum is known to help in relieving indigestion and gastrointestinal discomfort, suggesting potential carminative properties of Origanum laevigatum 'Herrenhausen'.
- Expectorant: There might be expectorant properties present within this particular species, as some members of the Origanum genus can aid in clearing respiratory passages, reducing phlegm.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Ornamental addition to rock gardens – 'Herrenhausen' is an attractive plant that can add texture and color among the stones and alpines commonly found in rock garden settings.
- Natural dye source – The leaves of oregano can be used to produce a natural dye for fabrics or crafting materials.
- Aromatherapy – The aromatic foliage can be used in potpourri or sachets to provide a naturally refreshing scent in homes or small enclosed spaces.
- Culinary decoration – Its purple flowers and leaves can be used as an edible garnish for dishes, adding a decorative touch to meals.
- Companion planting – Oregano is believed to repel certain pests and can be planted alongside vegetables to act as a natural form of pest control.
- Educational use – 'Herrenhausen' can be used in schools or educational workshops to teach about plant care, propagation, and the importance of biodiversity in gardens.
- Photography subject – The vibrant flowers and foliage of 'Herrenhausen' make it an excellent subject for botanical photography.
- Crafting – Dried stems and flowers can be incorporated into homemade wreaths, floral arrangements, or other decorative crafts.
- Soil improvement – As a herbaceous perennial, it can contribute to soil health by adding organic matter as its foliage decomposes.
- Wildlife garden inclusion – The flowers of 'Herrenhausen' can attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Oregano is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Oregano is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Peace: Origanum, commonly known as "Oregano," is often associated with peace due to its calming scent and use in cooking, which brings people together.
- Happiness: Oregano is known to symbolize happiness and joy, perhaps because of its sunny disposition in the garden and its ability to thrive in tough conditions.
- Protection: In folk tradition, oregano is thought to offer protection. It was believed that planting oregano around your home would protect it from evil spirits.
- Love: Oregano is linked with love and honor, and it's sometimes included in wedding ceremonies and bouquets to represent the longevity of the couple’s happiness.
- Good Health: Due to its medicinal properties, oregano is also symbolic of good health and wellness, which relates to its use in traditional remedies for various ailments.
WaterThe Marjoram plant should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. This typically means watering once every 1 to 2 weeks, using about 1 inch of water each time, but this can vary depending on climate, soil, and season. In hot, dry periods, watering may be increased to once a week, while in cooler, wet seasons, you might water less often. Always check the top inch of the soil for dryness before watering to guide the timing. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage around the plant.
LightMarjoram prefers full sun conditions, thriving with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. It should be planted in a spot where it can receive ample sunlight throughout the day, but it can tolerate a little shade, especially during the hottest part of the day. Avoid deeply shaded areas as this can stunt growth and reduce the plant's aromatic properties.
TemperatureMarjoram is hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures but performs best between 60°F and 80°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 20°F. However, to encourage the best growth and flavor, keep your marjoram in a location that avoids extreme cold or heat.
PruningPrune Marjoram to encourage bushy growth, remove spent flowers, and prevent woodiness. The best time to prune is in late spring or early summer, after the threat of frost has passed. Cut back up to one-third of the plant, focusing on older, woody stems. Pruning can be done again in late summer to tidy the plant and promote a second flush of growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Oregano 'Herrenhausen' prefers well-drained soil with a loamy or sandy texture and a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. For the best soil mix, combine two parts garden soil, one part sand or perlite, and one part compost to ensure good drainage and fertility.
RepottingThe Oregano 'Herrenhausen' does not require frequent repotting and can be repotted every 2-3 years, or when it outgrows its current container, to refresh soil and allow for growth.
Humidity & MistingThe Oregano 'Herrenhausen' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does well in average atmospheric humidity. No specific humidity adjustments are needed for this plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide sun, well-drained soil, and occasional watering.
Outdoor
Place in full sun, well-drained soil; water modestly.
Hardiness zone
7-11 USDA
Life cycleOriganum laevigatum 'Herrenhausen', commonly known as the Herrenhausen Oregano, initiates its life cycle when seeds germinate in spring, given the right moisture and temperature conditions. The seedlings develop into young plants, featuring oval, slightly hairy leaves, and establish a root system. As the plant matures, it produces stems that branch out and bear leaves, entering its vegetative growth stage, which continues throughout the spring and summer. When warmer temperatures arrive, the Herrenhausen Oregano enters its flowering stage, usually in mid to late summer, displaying pink to purple flowers that attract pollinators. After flowering, seeds are produced and dispersed, ready to begin a new life cycle, while the parent plant may begin to die back as cooler temperatures set in during fall. The plant is a perennial herb, so with proper conditions and care, it will emerge again from its rootstock the following spring to repeat the life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Origanum laevigatum 'Herrenhausen', commonly known as ornamental oregano, is often propagated by cuttings. This method is popular because it tends to produce true replicas of the parent plant. To propagate by cuttings, a 4 to 6 inch (10 to 15 cm) stem tip is cut from a healthy plant during the late spring or early summer months when the plant's growth is most vigorous. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting are removed, and the cut end is dipped into a rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. The prepared cutting is then inserted into a pot filled with a mix of peat and perlite or a well-draining potting soil. The pot should be kept moist and placed in indirect sunlight until roots have developed, which usually takes a few weeks. After the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted into the garden or individual pots.
