Origanum onites

Also Known As

Cretan Oregano

Plant type

shrub, perennial, herb

size

H: 12"-24"
W: 12"-24"

planting zones

7b-11

More Options

Origanum onites plant details

Origanum onites is a broadleaf deciduous or semi-evergreen perennial herb or shrub with blue and green foliage. In summer cream and white flowers emerge. Features fuzzy texture. Attracts bees, beneficial insects and butterflies making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun and regular - low water. Prefers to be dry in summer. Does well in average, gritty and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Origanum onites

Plant type: perennial herb or shrub
Plant family: lamiaceae
Foliage: deciduous or semi-evergreen blue and green
Mature size: 12 IN - 24 IN - wide, 12 IN - 24 IN - tall
Flowers: cream and white blooms in summer
Uses: culinary, fragrant, medicinal

GROWING CONDITIONS for Origanum onites

USDA Zones: 7b - 11
Sun exposure: sun
Watering frequency: regular - low
Resistant to: deer and rabbit, heat
Soil needs: average, gritty and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

The undoubted queen of flavor and fragrance among all Oreganos. I love this perennial native of Crete for its springy, closely stacked, light green foliage spires that form whimsical looking 2’x2’ mounds. Bees and butterflies adore the sweet white flower balls that top it in Spring and Summer and the blooms are every bit as useful in cooking as the leaves – they’re especially good in teas! Not only is it on the culinary ‘A’ list, it also has time-honored medicinal uses for a myriad of ailments (soothing upset stomachs, antiseptic, sleep aid, etc.). Grow this super tasty deer resistant herb in rich well drained soil and you will have it for years to come, providing a truly special pizazz to your pizzas, salads, or soups. Drought tolerant once established. Cut back after flowering to prevent it from becoming woody and a little bitter.

By: Annie's Annuals & Perennials

A tender shrublet from the mediterranean region, pot marjoram has long been cultivated for culinary purposes. ZONE 7

By: Arrowhead Alpines

Garden photo gallery of Origanum onites

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By: Arrowhead Alpines

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Gardening facts about Origanum onites plant

How to Grow Origanum onites

Sun Exposure
- sun
Water Needs
- regular - low
Water Needs
- dry in summer
Soil Needs
- average
- well-drained
- gritty
Special Situation
- heat tolerant

Features

Foliage Color
- green
- blue
Flower Color
- white
- cream
Wildlife
- beneficial insects
- bees
- butterflies
- deer resistant
- rabbit resistant
Flower Season
- summer
Foliage Season
- deciduous
- semi-evergreen
Texture
- fuzzy