Oregano, Greek

Greek oregano has that authentic Mediterranean flavor that dried grocery store oregano wishes it had—intensely aromatic and slightly peppery. This low-growing perennial is drought-tolerant once established and comes back stronger each year, giving you endless pizza and pasta seasoning.

Oregano: This Mediterranean perennial herb (Origanum vulgare) is a true kitchen powerhouse, delivering a concentrated, warm, slightly bitter flavor that is absolutely essential for authentic Italian and Greek cuisine. This flavor intensifies dramatically when dried. Choose Greek cultivars for the most authentic pizza and pasta sauce flavor, or Italian varieties for a slightly milder taste. Plants form attractive, spreading mounds covered in tiny pink or white flowers that are highly attractive to bees. Plant it once, and this perennial will return stronger each year, giving you delicious harvests for years to come.

• Growing Tips: Transplant after last frost, spacing 12-15 inches apart; plants spread slowly and are perennial in zones 5-10.

• Sun Requirements: Full sun (6-8 hours minimum).

• Preferred Soil: Well-drained, average to lean soil; prefers drier conditions and tolerates drought.

• Harvest Details: Begin harvesting stems when plants reach 6 inches; flavor is strongest just before flowering; dry leaves for maximum flavor concentration; cut back after flowering to encourage new growth; perennial that returns stronger each year.