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Origanum vulgare
Confirmed format: 9cm potted herb
Plant Highlights
Bright golden aromatic foliage
Edible leaves for fresh or dried culinary use
Nectar-rich summer flowers attract pollinating insects
Thrives in full sun and free-draining soil
Excellent for herb gardens, edging and containers
Golden Oregano is an attractive ornamental and culinary herb grown for its vibrant golden-yellow foliage and aromatic leaves. The colourful foliage provides a bright contrast in herb gardens, gravel beds and mixed borders, while the leaves can be harvested fresh or dried to flavour a wide range of Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
During summer, clusters of small pink to pale mauve flowers appear above the foliage, attracting bees and other beneficial pollinating insects. Its compact, spreading habit makes it an excellent choice for edging paths, planting between paving, raised beds and patio containers where both its colour and fragrance can be appreciated.
Bright golden foliage adds long-lasting colour.
Aromatic leaves are suitable for culinary use.
Flowers provide an excellent food source for bees and pollinators.
Easy to grow in sunny, well-drained positions.
Attractive in both ornamental and productive gardens.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Origanum vulgare |
| Common Name | Golden Oregano |
| Plant Type | Herbaceous perennial herb |
| Edible Part | Aromatic leaves |
| Foliage | Bright golden-yellow, fragrant leaves |
| Flowering Period | Summer |
| Flowers | Small pink to pale mauve flower clusters |
| Growth Habit | Low-growing, bushy to gently spreading |
| Position | Full sun |
| Soil | Well-drained, moderately fertile soil |
| Mature Height | Approximately 20–30cm |
| Mature Spread | Approximately 30–45cm |
| Hardiness | Hardy in most Irish gardens when grown in free-draining soil |
Plant in a sunny, open position to maintain the brightest foliage colour and strongest flavour. It is ideal for herb gardens, raised beds, gravel gardens and containers.
Water regularly while establishing. Once established, Golden Oregano is drought tolerant and generally only requires watering during prolonged dry periods. Container-grown plants should be watered when the compost begins to dry.
Grow in free-draining soil. Avoid heavy, waterlogged conditions, particularly during winter. Adding horticultural grit to heavier soils will improve drainage and support healthy growth.
Suitable for year-round outdoor cultivation in most Irish gardens. Growth may die back in colder weather before fresh shoots emerge in spring. Good drainage during winter is important for long-term health.
Harvest little and often to encourage fresh, bushy growth. Trim lightly after flowering to maintain a neat shape and prevent plants becoming woody. Divide established clumps every few years to maintain vigour.
Kitchen and herb gardens.
Raised vegetable beds.
Patio containers.
Gravel and Mediterranean-style planting.
Pollinator-friendly gardens.
Golden Oregano is grown as much for its colourful foliage as its culinary value. The brightest golden leaf colour develops in full sun, while partial shade can result in greener foliage.
Botanical identity: Origanum vulgare.
Supplied in a 9cm nursery pot.
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