Cuban Oregano
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"
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
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Does very well in part shade or areas that receive morning light
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Use well draining soil
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Do not over water - water occasionally
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Cut back by half after flowering to encourage new growth
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Very low maintenance plant if placed in the right spot!
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Do not give much fertilizer; it can burn the roots
Won't Tolerate
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Frost - will damage leaves
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Temperatures below 60 will slow growth
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Full sun especially in hot weather
History
&
Points of Interest
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Native to India and Malaysia - but is widely cultivated in eastern and southern Africa.
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Member of the mint family (Lamiaceae)
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Other names: Vick's Plant (due to its scent), Mexican Mint, Spanish Thyme, Indian Borage, Broadleaf Thyme,
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Can be grown as a houseplant
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Grows very well in containers and hanging baskets
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Uses: Culinary - use moderately - has a very strong flavor
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Contains vitamins: A, C, and E and other minerals and phosphates