Origanum syriacum Cleopatra (Syrian Oregano)

Selected for its uniformity, flavor, aroma, and high yields, award-winning Origanum syriacum ‘Cleopatra’ (Syrian Oregano) is a bushy and compact perennial herb with erect stems densely covered with small, egg-shaped, silvery gray leaves.

Selected for its uniformity, flavor, aroma, and high yields, award-winning Origanum syriacum 'Cleopatra' (Syrian Oregano) is a bushy and compact perennial herb with erect stems densely covered with small, egg-shaped, silvery gray leaves. Unlike Greek and Italian oreganos, Cleopatra has a mild, spicy flavor with a hint of peppermint. Many cooks prefer adding it to their roasted vegetables and savory meat dishes. It works well in a raised bed as well as containers. Dry the leaves harvested from this high-yield plant for use year-round.

  • 2015 All-America Selections winner.
  • Grows up to 10 in. tall and wide (25 cm).
  • Thrives in full sun 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.
  • An excellent choice for cottage gardens, Mediterranean gardens, or containers.
  • Cut back old flowering stems in early spring to keep the planting tidy and to induce the growth of new leaves.
  • Propagate by seeds in spring, cuttings in summer.

Requirements

Hardiness 9
– 10

Climate Zones 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Plant Type Herbs, Perennials
Plant Family Origanum – Oregano
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Mid,Late)
Height 8"
– 10"
(20cm
– 25cm)
Spread 8"
– 10"
(20cm
– 25cm)
Spacing 7″
– 8″
(17cm
– 20cm)
Water Needs Low
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Dried Arrangements, Fragrant, Plant of Merit, Showy
Tolerance Clay Soil, Drought
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage, Mediterranean Garden