OREGANO Seeds

Oregano (Origanum vulgare) is an aromatic, perennial Mediterranean herb grown for its fragrant, savory leaves used fresh or dried. Compact and bushy, it is a kitchen-garden staple for Italian and Mediterranean cooking.

At a glance

• Botanical name: Origanum vulgare
• Type: Heirloom, open-pollinated perennial herb
• Days to maturity: about 80 to 90 days to first harvest
• Hardiness: perennial in USDA zones 4 to 9
• Sun: Full sun
• Spacing: 12 to 18 inches apart
• Planting depth: surface sow and press in, seeds need light to germinate
• Mature height: 12 to 18 inches

Best for

• Seasoning sauces, soups, and stews
• Pizza and pasta dishes
• Drying for year-round use
• Container and herb-garden growing
• Attracting pollinators when in bloom

How to grow

Sow on the surface of warm, well-drained soil and keep lightly moist until germination. Grow in full sun in moderately fertile, slightly alkaline soil. Oregano is drought-tolerant once established, so let the soil dry between waterings. Harvest sprigs regularly to encourage bushy growth, and pinch off flower buds to keep the flavor strong.

Flavor profile

Warm, peppery, and pungent with a savory aroma that intensifies when the leaves are dried.

About 99Heirlooms

99Heirlooms specializes in non-GMO, open-pollinated heirloom seeds chosen for flavor and reliability, so you can grow proven varieties and save seed season after season.