Oregano Greek Strain Untreated - Herb

OREGANO - Greek or winter type

Tender Perennial (2.5 ft/76 cm) Approx. 195,000 seeds per oz/28 g

Origanum heracleoticum. A perennial strain native to Greece and Cyprus. It is not fully acclimated to the sub zero areas of northern U.S.A. and Canada, so in those areas you should treat it as a tender perennial or a hardy annual. Flavor is much stronger than common strains of oregano (0. vulgare). Root systems are very fine, plants are low growing, almost creeping with very hairy leaves which will grow a bit higher the second year. Small clusters of white flowers develop at the stem ends. Seeds are much smaller and more expensive than the regular strain.

CULTURE: Seed is three times smaller than the regular strain and germination is considered good if it is 50-60%. Sow indoors in short season areas Mar. 1st - Apr. 1st, at 6 seeds per pot (2.25 in/6 cm peat pots) press seed into the soil surface, do not cover and keep moist until seeds germinate about 3 weeks later. Wait until danger of last spring frost is over before you transplant young plants outdoors. For outdoor seeding sow seed after dandelions bloom (about May 1st in northern areas). Choose a medium rich soil with good drainage and normal moisture in a sunny location.

HARVEST: For best results, keep plants trimmed to prevent them from flowering. Make divisions the second year and replant every third year. Plants spread by underground runners. Move plants indoors in areas where winters are severe.

USES: Although the Greek strain is superior to the common strain in the kitchen with its stronger flavor, its medical uses are much narrower.