This plant is a creeping perennial that reaches 24 inches tall. Dark green leaves have a rich purple tint, and its purplish pink flower clusters appear from late spring through autumn. ‘Herrenhausen’ (Zones 5–8) displays masses of showy pink flowers with maroon bracts on purplish stems. ‘Hopleys’ (Zones 7–10) is taller (up to 36 inches) with large, long-blooming, deep pink flowers, and is a vigorous grower, more tolerant of heat than ‘Herrenhausen’.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsFound growing in rocky terrain in Turkey and Cypress. Excellent in stone walls. Attracts bees and insects. Not good as a culinary herb.
CareNeeds good drainage. Grow in poor to moderately fertile soil.
PropagationDivide in spring or take basal cuttings in late spring.
ProblemsRoot and stem rots. Aphids and spider mites.
Fine Gardening Recommended Products
RAINPOINT Sprinkler Timer with Brass Swivel
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
D&X Garden Sprinkler
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
Rain Bird PATIOKIT Drip Irrigation Patio Watering Kit
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
- Genus : Origanum
- Plant Height : 1 to 3 feet
- Plant Width : 1 to 3 feet
- Zones : 7, 8, 9
- Moisture : Dry to Medium
- Bloom Time : Fall, Late Spring, Spring, Summer
- Light : Full Sun
- Plant Type : Perennials
- Flower Color : Pink
- Foliage Color : Purple/Burgundy
- Characteristics : Showy Foliage
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Summer Interest
Plant Characteristics are only available to Fine Gardening members
Sign up for a free trial and get instant access to our complete plant guide as well as our entire collection of articles and videos.
