How to Plant and Grow Greek Oregano

How to Grow Flavorful Greek Oregano Origanum vulgare var. hirtum

Greek oregano is perhaps one of the most familiar of the culinary herbs among cooks in North America.

I use this spicy and flavorful seasoning in just about everything I cook, and therefore it was one of the very first perennials I planted when I started my garden – I wanted a supply on hand at all times!

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Feel the same way? Read on to learn all about growing your own Greek oregano.

There are a number of species and cultivars that are referred to commonly as oregano, coming from different regions and with different flavor profiles.

A subspecies of Origanum vulgare, Greek oregano is a slightly spicy herb with an earthy flavor. Native to dry rocky mountainous regions in the Mediterranean, it is commonly used as a seasoning for pizza, sauces, meats, and salads.

This perennial herb is hardy from USDA Zones 5 to 10. It grows about two feet tall and wide, with soft hairy leaves. White fragrant flowers bloom from midsummer to fall, attracting bees and butterflies.

A vigorous grower, this plant spreads naturally via underground runners – so well, in fact, that it can even be used as a ground cover! You can learn more about growing culinary herbs as a ground cover in our article.

Greek oregano grows wild on mountainous slopes of Greece and Turkey.

It is also commonly referred to in the Mediterranean as “wild marjoram,” though it should not be confused with Origanum majorana, which is a different species in the same genus, that has a milder and sweeter flavor.

Technically, the flavorful culinary herb we call