Origanum calcaratum
dittany of Amorgos
A low-growing perennial with broadly oval to rounded, aromatic deep green leaves covered with fine, sometimes woolly white hairs. In summer, long clusters of pale green rounded bracts flushed with pink are tipped with small, pale pink flowers with long pink stamens
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Pink | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H3Botanical details
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Spreading branched
- Genus
Origanum may be herbaceous perennials or deciduous or evergreen sub-shrubs, with aromatic foliage and spikes of small tubular flowers usually with conspicuous bracts
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Greece
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in poor or moderately fertile, alkaline, well drained soil in full sun with shelter. Dislikes winter wet and may need protection from low temperatures, suitable for growing in a container in an alpine house. See oregano cultivation for further advice See https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/trials-awards for further information about RHS plant trials and awards
Propagation
Propagate by division in spring, or by basal softwood cuttings in late spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Patio and container plants
- Rock garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Coastal
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
Cut back in autumn as foliage dies back
Pests
May be susceptible to aphids
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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