Oregano (Origanum ‘Bristol Cross’)

Oregano

Features and Characteristics

Origanum is a genus of about 20 species of herbaceous perennials and deciduous and evergreen sub-shrubs. They are native to the Mediterranean and southwestern Asia. Some are used as culinary herbs.

Genus name probably comes from the Greek words oros meaning “mountain” and gamos meaning “beauty” in reference to the physical appearance of this plant which is sometimes native of mountain areas where it is appropriately referred to as “beauty of the mountain”.

‘Bristol Cross’ is a cross between Origanum laevigatum and Origanum rotundifolium. It has rose-tinged, chartreuse bracts that overlap resembling decorative braids or chains with tiny, tubular, purple flowers at the tips. The medium green leaves are fragrant with a mild oregano flavor and may be used in cooking. The wiry cascading stems form a dwarf mounding perennial that grows 1/2 to 3/4 ft. tall and 1 to 1 1/2 ft. wide.

Care and Maintenance

Easily grown in average, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun. Does very well in gritty, sandy loams. Good heat and drought tolerance. Best to shear plants back regularly before flowering to keep the planting tidy and to induce growth of new leaves.

Oregano (Origanum ‘Bristol Cross’) Requirements

Hardiness zone	5 - 9
Sun light	Full Sun
Water	Dry To Medium
Maintenance	Low

Common Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. Root rot may occur in wet, poorly drained soils. Fungal diseases, aphids and spider mites are occasional problems. Deer tend to avoid this plant.

Uses

Mass in border fronts, herb gardens or rock gardens. Also effective as an edger. Large containers.

Oregano (Origanum ‘Bristol Cross’) Details

Common name	Oregano
Botanical name	Origanum 'Bristol Cross'
Plant type	Herbaceous Perennial
Family	Lamiaceae
Hardiness zone	5 - 9
Water	Dry To Medium
Maintenance	Low
Flower color	Purple With Showy Pink Bracts
Flowering period	August - Oc- Ber
Height	0.50 To 0.75 Feet
Width	1 - 1.50 Feet