COMMON NAMES:  Mexican oregano, Rosemary Mint
 

BOTANICAL NAME:  Poliomintha longiflora  (po-lee-oh-MIN-tha lon-jee-FLO-ruh)
 

FAMILY:  Lamiaceae (lay-mee-AY-see-ee)

 

HABIT:  Evergreen herb with flowers in summer (spring through fall). Height: 2 – 5’, Spacing/Spread: 3’– 6’. Its tubular white to lavender-pink flowers in the summer are 1-1/2 inches long and smell of oregano. It doesn’t always set seeds. Spreading, but bushy form with strong smelling, mint-like leaves. Brittle stems. Easy to grow bloomer over a long period of time.

 

CULTURE:  Drought tolerant perennial for full sun to part shade. Evergreen. Purple flowers during the summer.

 

PROBLEMS:  Can freeze out in north of zone 8.

 

HARVEST/STORAGE:  Use the leaves fresh from the plant or pick them when green and dry. Store in glass. 

 

CULINARY USES:  Tea and good for flavoring meats including cabrito. Use fresh as an oregano substitute.

 

MEDICINAL USES:  Drink tea for respiratory problems.

 

LANDSCAPE USES:  Use in wildflower gardens, the perennial garden, the herb garden and in pots. Excellent for attracting hummingbirds.

 

INSIGHT:  Mexican oregano is a bad name because it doesn’t resemble oregano. Good plant however and should be used more.

 

PROPAGATION:  Hardwood cuttings, Softwood cuttings, layering.