Description: Mexican oregano is a member of the Verbenaceae family and is not botanically related to Mediterranean oregano (Origanum vulgare). It is a shrubby plant that typically grows 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 centimeters) tall and spreads about the same width. The leaves of Mexican oregano are oval-shaped, slightly serrated, and have a fuzzy texture. They exude a strong, spicy aroma with hints of citrus and are widely used in Mexican, Central American, and Caribbean cuisines to flavor a variety of dishes, including salsas, soups, stews, and marinades.
Size: Mexican oregano plants typically grow to a height of 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 centimeters) and spreads of about the same width at maturity. However, individual plants may vary in size depending on growing conditions, climate, and cultural practices. Mexican oregano has a bushy growth habit with multiple stems and branches, forming a dense clump of foliage.
Best Growing Zones: Mexican oregano thrives in warm, temperate climates and is best suited to regions with USDA hardiness zones 9 through 11. It is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in dry, rocky, and well-drained soils with full sun exposure. Mexican oregano is relatively tolerant of heat, drought, and poor soil conditions, making it well-adapted to hot and arid climates.
Soil and Sun Requirements: Mexican oregano prefers well-drained soil with good fertility and adequate moisture retention. It thrives in full sun exposure, receiving at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Adequate sunlight is essential for promoting vigorous growth and enhancing the flavor and aroma of the leaves. Mexican oregano is relatively drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal supplemental watering, especially in regions with hot and dry summers.
Maintenance: Mexican oregano is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care to thrive. It is relatively pest and disease resistant and does not usually require chemical pesticides or fungicides. Prune Mexican oregano plants as needed to remove dead or damaged branches and to maintain the desired shape and size. Harvest the leaves as needed for culinary use, taking care not to remove more than one-third of the plant's foliage at a time to avoid stress.
