Hopleys Oregano Origanum laevigatum 'Hopleys'
ABOUT
Origanum laevigatum 'Hopleys', commonly known as oregano, is a perennial herb that is well-loved for its aromatic foliage and attractive flowers. The leaves of this cultivar are oval, slightly hairy, and possess a gray-green hue that makes them distinct in a garden setting. The texture of the foliage gives the plant a soft, inviting appearance. Throughout the growing season, oregano 'Hopleys' becomes adorned with a profusion of flowers that range in color from soft pink to a more intense purplish-pink. These flowers are small, tubular, and grouped in showy, branched clusters that present a striking contrast against the gray-green foliage, creating a delightful display of colors and textures. The overall form of the plant is both bushy and spreading, allowing it to create a full and lush appearance in the landscape. Its tendency to spread makes it an excellent choice for use as a ground cover or as part of a border. Oregano 'Hopleys' is favored not only for its ornamental value but also for its culinary uses. The leaves are highly fragrant and can be used fresh or dried in a variety of dishes, although this particular cultivar is primarily grown for its decorative qualities. The plant is a magnet for pollinators such as bees and butterflies, adding an ecological benefit to its visual appeal. Its robust nature makes it a low-maintenance choice for gardeners looking to add long-lasting color and texture to their outdoor spaces.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae.
Synonyms
Hopleys Purple Flowering Oregano, Ornamental Oregano.
Common names
Origanum laevigatum 'Hopleys'.
ToxicityTo humans
Oregano Origanum laevigatum 'Hopleys', more commonly known as oregano, does not pose a significant threat of toxicity to humans when consumed in typical culinary amounts. The herb is widely used in cooking and is generally regarded as safe for human consumption. Ingesting large amounts of oregano could potentially lead to stomach upset in sensitive individuals but it is not considered toxic. No severe symptoms of poisoning are expected from ingesting this plant.
To pets
Oregano Origanum laevigatum 'Hopleys', commonly known as oregano, is considered to be of low toxicity to pets. While it is not typically associated with severe toxicity, it can cause gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea if consumed in large quantities. Generally, pets will not be severely poisoned by ingesting this plant, but it is advisable to prevent pets from consuming large amounts of any non-food plants as a precautionary measure.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Semi-deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
7-11
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Origanum laevigatum 'Hopleys' is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which helps pollinate surrounding plants.
- Drought-resistant: Once established, this plant is drought-tolerant, making it suitable for xeriscaping or gardens in dry climates.
- Ornamental appeal: With its attractive purple-pink flowers and aromatic foliage, it adds visual interest and fragrance to gardens and landscapes.
- Culinary uses: The leaves of Hopleys can be used in cooking, providing a fresh, aromatic flavor to a variety of dishes.
- Easy to grow: Hopleys is considered easy to cultivate, requiring minimal maintenance, which makes it suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Perennial growth: As a perennial, it will return year after year, providing long-term structure and color in a garden setting.
- Deer-resistant: This plant is not favored by deer, which makes it a good choice for gardens in areas with a high deer population.
- Ground cover: Its growth habit can help suppress weeds and cover bare spots in the garden, reducing garden maintenance requirements.
- Edging and borders: The plant’s compact and neat growth habit makes it an excellent choice for edging paths and borders.
- Herb gardens: It's a great addition to herb gardens, providing both practical and aesthetic benefits.
Medical Properties- Antimicrobial activity: Origanum laevigatum 'Hopleys', commonly known as ornamental oregano, may have antimicrobial properties due to the essential oils it contains, similar to other members of the Origanum genus.
- Antioxidant effects: The plant may contain compounds with antioxidant properties, which can help in protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals.
- Anti-inflammatory potential: Like other oregano varieties, ornamental oregano could possess anti-inflammatory properties, which might be beneficial in reducing inflammation.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Natural Dye: The leaves and flowers can be used to produce a natural dye for fabrics, yielding a range of colors from pale yellow to green, depending on the mordant used.
- Decorative Potpourri: Dried leaves and flowers of oregano can add a pleasant fragrance to potpourri mixes for home decoration.
- Culinary Garnish: Fresh or dried oregano flowers can be used as a decorative and flavorful garnish on dishes, contributing subtle flavor and color.
- Plant Combinations: Oregano can be interplanted with other herbs and flowers in gardens to create aesthetically pleasing combinations that offer varied textures and colors.
- Insect Deterrent: Oregano can be planted in gardens to naturally deter common pests, as its strong scent is unappealing to many insects.
- Photography: With its attractive flowers, oregano can serve as an excellent subject for botanical photography, offering a splash of color and detail.
- Flavored Oils and Vinegars: Oregano leaves and flowers can infuse oils and vinegars with their taste, making unique culinary condiments.
- Craft Materials: Dried oregano stems, leaves, and flowers can be used in various crafts, such as in wreaths or as part of a floral arrangement.
- Educational Tool: Oregano plants can be used in schools or educational programs to teach students about plant biology, horticulture, and the use of herbs.
- Companion Planting: Oregano can benefit vegetable gardens by attracting beneficial pollinators and predators that keep pest populations in check.
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: Oregano, which includes Origanum laevigatum 'Hopleys', is often associated with peace. In ancient times, it was believed that if you anoint yourself with oregano, you would dream of a peaceful future.
- Happiness: This plant has been used in traditional folk medicine and is often linked to happiness and tranquility, possibly because of its calming scent and its use in creating a relaxing environment.
- Protection: Oregano, in general, is believed to have protective qualities. It was used by the Ancient Greeks and Romans to create crowns for brides and grooms to protect them against evil spirits.
- Health: Oregano is rich in antioxidants and is commonly used as a medicinal herb. In symbolism, it reflects the idea of health and vitality due to its therapeutic properties.
WaterThe Hopleys oregano requires regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. It's best to water deeply and allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to encourage strong root development. Typically, this may mean watering once a week, but this can vary depending on climate and weather conditions. A general guideline is to provide about 1 gallon of water per square yard of soil every week, adjusting as necessary during hot, dry periods or rainy spells.
LightThe Hopleys oregano thrives in full sun to partial shade. The ideal location would receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, but it can also tolerate light dappled shade, especially in hot climates. Avoid deep shade as this will reduce the vigor and flavor of the plant.
TemperatureHopleys oregano prefers moderate to warm temperatures and can survive in a temperature range from around 30°F to 80°F. The plant's ideal growing conditions are between 60°F and 70°F. While it can tolerate a light frost, prolonged exposure to temperatures below freezing may damage or kill the plant.
PruningPrune Hopleys oregano to encourage bushier growth and prevent it from becoming woody and sparse. Trim it back in early spring before new growth begins and after the last frost date. Deadheading the spent flowers can also promote a second blooming and prevent self-sowing if desired. Pruning is typically done once or twice a year.
CleaningAs needed
SoilHopleys Purple Oregano prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH ranging from neutral to slightly alkaline (around 6.5-8.0). A good mix might include equal parts of loam, sand, and compost to ensure adequate drainage and fertility.
RepottingHopleys Purple Oregano does not need frequent repotting and can be done every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its container. It's best to repot in spring or early summer.
Humidity & MistingHopleys Purple Oregano tolerates a wide range of humidity levels but thrives in moderate conditions; extreme humidity is not necessary for its growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Place in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
7-11 USDA
Life cycleOriganum laevigatum 'Hopleys', commonly known as Hopleys Oregano, begins its life as a seed sown in well-drained soil during spring. After germination, the seedling emerges and develops into a juvenile plant, establishing itself with a network of roots and sprouting its characteristic aromatic leaves. The juvenile plant then matures into an adult plant, which grows vigorously, producing branching stems and forming dense foliage. During the summer months, the mature Hopleys Oregano plant blooms, featuring clusters of small, purple-pink flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After the blooming period, seeds develop and are eventually dispersed as the flowers fade and dry, completing the reproductive cycle. The plant then enters a period of dormancy during the colder winter months before resuming growth in the spring, continuing its perennial life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Propogation: Origanum laevigatum 'Hopleys', commonly known as Hopley's Oregano, can be effectively propagated through the division of established clumps, which is a popular method for this particular plant. The ideal time for dividing Hopley's Oregano is in the spring or early fall when the plant is not in full bloom, which allows the plant to establish its root system in cooler temperatures. When dividing, carefully lift the entire plant from the soil and use a sharp spade or knife to cut through the root clump into several pieces, making sure each section has a good amount of roots and a few shoots for regrowth. These divisions should then be replanted at the same depth they were growing at originally, spaced about 12 inches (roughly 30 centimeters) apart to give them ample room to grow. Adequate watering after replanting is crucial to help the divisions establish in their new locations.
