Cuban Oregano | provenceartantiques

Name

Botanical Name

Family

Native to

Water

Sun

Soil

Height

Width

Space

Cuban Oregano, variegated

Plectranthus amboinicus

Lamiaceae

Possibly native to India or Malaysia, but is widely cultivated in southern and eastern Africa

Moderate - water occasionally

Part shade is best

Well drained

12-24"

24"

Description

4" pots: $2.20

6" Pots: $3.50

Terracotta pots and other planters:

Prices Vary

Description

Very fragrant, fleshy leaves which feel velvety to the touch. Leaves have a very distinctive scent when crushed (a mix between oregano and thyme but much stronger). Flowers appear on spikes in summer and are a light lilac-pink, white, or light purple in color. The variegated variety grows best in zones 10 and 11.

Keeping it Going

Does very well in part shade or areas that receive morning light
Use well draining soil
Do not over water - water occasionally
Cut back by half after flowering to encourage new growth
Very low maintenance plant if placed in the right spot!
Do not give much fertilizer; it can burn the roots

Won't Tolerate

Frost - will damage leaves
Temperatures below 60 will slow growth
Full sun especially in hot weather

History

&

Points of Interest

Native to India and Malaysia - but is widely cultivated in eastern and southern Africa.
Member of the mint family (Lamiaceae)
Other names: Vick's Plant (due to its scent), Mexican Mint, Spanish Thyme, Indian Borage, Broadleaf Thyme,
Can be grown as a houseplant
Grows very well in containers and hanging baskets
Uses: Culinary - use moderately - has a very strong flavor
Contains vitamins: A, C, and E and other minerals and phosphates