Mexican Oregano
Lippia graveolens
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Pl. 89B2 — Lippia graveolens
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IOverview
Overview
Mexican Oregano, scientifically known as Lippia graveolens, is a perennial shrub native to Central and South America, with its range extending into the southern United States. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 9-12 and can grow up to 2 meters tall. While widely distributed across regions such as Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico, Mexican Oregano is particularly notable for its edible leaves, which are used in culinary applications. Its distinctive aroma and flavor make it a popular choice in both traditional and modern cooking.
Quick answers
What is Mexican Oregano?
Mexican Oregano, scientifically known as Lippia graveolens, is a perennial shrub native to Central and South America, with its range extending into the southern United States.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Mexican Oregano thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is drought-tolerant but will also grow in moist conditions. This plant is hardy in zones 9-12 and can reach a height of 2 meters. For propagation, gardeners can use cuttings or seeds. Harvest the leaves for culinary use.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
9-12
Mature size
2.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Mexican Oregano for the first time
8steps
Start with Mexican Oregano to gain gardening confidence.
- 1
What you'll need
A small pot, quality soil, and seeds or a young plant.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the last frost has passed.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with some sand for lightness. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds outdoors after danger of frost, or start indoors 4-6 weeks before planting out.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to avoid rotting the roots. Keep in a sunny spot but protect from strong winds.
- 6
Ongoing care
Place in full sun and water only when dry. Prune lightly to encourage bushiness.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and promote new growth.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: Condiment, Tea
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
29 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
29 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 29 native
Americas12 regions
native (12)BelizeBoliviaColombiaCosta RicaEl SalvadorGuatemalaGuyanaHondurasNicaraguaParaguayUruguayVenezuela
Broader regions
native:Argentina Northeast, Brazil North, Brazil Northeast, Brazil South, Brazil Southeast, Brazil West-Central, Mexico Central, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northwest, Mexico Southeast, Mexico Southwest, New Mexico, Texas, Trinidad-Tobago, Venezuelan Antilles, Argentina Northwest, Mexico Northeast
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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- Citation
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 89b24484-b25d-4e91-be3a-8a1421d35834
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