Origanum dictamnus (Dittany of Crete)

Aromatic and strangely beautiful, Origanum dictamnus (Dittany of Crete) is a bushy sub-shrub forming a spreading mound of small, rounded, fuzzy silvery-white leaves. The leaves have a mild oregano flavor and may be used for seasoning soups, sauces, salads, roasts, vegetables and meats. In summer, it produces whorls of pendulous, pale green, hop-like bracts which mature to showy reddish-purple. Tiny, two-lipped, pink to purple flowers peek out of them. This plant has a long history as culinary and medicinal herb and is mentioned in Greek mythology.

• Grows up to 6-12 in. tall (15-30 cm) and 18-24 in. wide (45-60 cm).
• Thrives in full sun to part shade in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils. Good heat and drought tolerance. Intolerant of high humidity.
• Low maintenance and relatively disease and pest free, this plant is also deer resistant.
• An excellent choice for sunny borders, cottage gardens, Mediterranean gardens or containers.
• Cut back old flowered stems in early spring to keep the planting tidy and to induce growth of new leaves. Best leaf flavor usually occurs just prior to flowering.
• Propagate by seed or by division in the autumn or spring.
• Native to Crete.