Mexican Oregano
COMMON NAMES
: Mexican oregano, Rosemary Mint
BOTANICAL NAME: Poliomintha longiflora (po-lee-oh-MIN-tha lon-jee-FLO-ruh)
FAMILY: Lamiaceae (lay-mee-AY-see-ee)
HABIT: Evergreen herb with flowers in summer (spring through fall). Height: 2 – 5’, Spacing/Spread: 3’– 6’. Its tubular white to lavender-pink flowers in the summer are 1-1/2 inches long and smell of oregano. It doesn’t always set seeds. Spreading, but bushy form with strong smelling, mint-like leaves. Brittle stems. Easy to grow bloomer over a long period of time.
CULTURE: Drought tolerant perennial for full sun to part shade. Evergreen. Purple flowers during the summer.
PROBLEMS
:
Can freeze out in north of zone 8.
HARVEST/STORAGE: Use the leaves fresh from the plant or pick them when green and dry. Store in glass.
CULINARY USES: Tea and good for flavoring meats including cabrito. Use fresh as an oregano substitute.
MEDICINAL USES: Drink tea for respiratory problems.
LANDSCAPE USES: Use in wildflower gardens, the perennial garden, the herb garden and in pots. Excellent for attracting hummingbirds.
INSIGHT: Mexican oregano is a bad name because it doesn’t resemble oregano. Good plant however and should be used more.
PROPAGATION: Hardwood cuttings, Softwood cuttings, layering.