Origanum aka Majoram

Origanum, also known as oregano, is a genus of herbaceous perennials and subshrubs in the family Lamiaceae. Native to Europe, North Africa, and temperate Asia, these plants are found in open or mountainous habitats. Some species have also naturalized in scattered locations in North America and other regions. Origanum plants have strongly aromatic leaves and produce abundant tubular flowers with long-lasting colored bracts. The genus includes culinary herbs such as marjoram and oregano. They are also used as ornamental plants in gardens, with some cultivars receiving prestigious awards. Certain Lepidoptera species use Origanum as food plants for their larvae. Oregano is a well-known spice used in Mediterranean and American cuisine, particularly in Mexican, Italian, and Greek dishes. It is a low-growing, woody-based perennial with slender reddish stems, aromatic green leaves, and clusters of small, tubular, lilac pink flowers in summer. Oregano can be easily grown indoors or outdoors, but caution should be exercised as it is toxic to pets.