Mexican Oregano
Lippia graveolens
Verbenaceae
Growth habit
Shrub
Perennation
Cultivated as annual
Native distribution
S. North America, Mexico, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Honduras
Biocultural value
Leaves have a strong oregano flavor and are a popular seasoning in Mexico and the American Southwest.
Location
Source of plant
Well-Sweep Herb Farm
Description
Shrub to 2m, branches shortly pilose. Leaves to 6cm, elliptic to oblong or ovate-oblong, usually obtuse or rounded, densely and softly pilose above, glandular and densely tomentose or pilose beneath, finely crenate; petiole to 1cm. Inflorescence with 2-6 peduncles, to 12mm; bracts often in 4 rows, ovate to lanceolate, acute, densely pilose and glandular; calyx to 2mm, villous and glandular; corolla white, tube strigulose, to 3mm.
USDA Hardiness Zone
9
Special characteristics
food, tender perennial