Origanum syriacum

Syrian Oregano Lamiaceae

Origanum syriacum (Lamiaceae) is a long-lived, woody-based perennial subshrub from the eastern Mediterranean, occurring on dry, rocky hillsides and open scrub. It forms compact, spreading clumps 30–60 cm tall with softly hairy, ovate to rounded grey-green leaves that are exceptionally aromatic when crushed. Dense clusters of small, white, two-lipped flowers are produced from mid to late summer, held in attractive hop-like bracts, and are rich in nectar, making them highly attractive to bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects.

Renowned as one of the principal herbs used in the traditional Middle Eastern seasoning za’atar, the leaves possess a distinctive warm, resinous flavour with notes of oregano, thyme and marjoram. They may be harvested fresh throughout the growing season or dried for winter use.

Best grown in full sun in sharply drained, moderately fertile soil, O. syriacum is exceptionally tolerant of heat and summer drought once established but dislikes winter wet, particularly on heavy soils. It benefits from light pruning after flowering and in spring to maintain a compact habit and encourage fresh, leafy growth. Hardy to approximately –10 to –15°C in well-drained conditions, it is well suited to herb gardens, gravel gardens, raised beds and containers.