Origanum 'Kent Beauty'


Common name(s): ornamental oregano


Description: perennial; far and away the most popular ornamental oregano in the trade. A chance seedling in an English garden (in Kent if you'd believe it) thought to by a hybrid of O. rotundifolium and O. scabrum. Showy dark rose flower bracts with small pink flowers in summer. Spreads via underground runners which makes it less than ideal for container culture. Easily appreciated cascading over rocks, a retaining wall, or something of the sort.


Height: to 6 in. Spread: to 3 ft.


Position: full sun and lean, well-draining soil


Uses: ornamental, to attract pollinators


Winter Hardiness: to 0 F and below


Drought: adapted to 4 months of summer drought

Care: no special care needed, can be pruned hard in spring to rejuvenate foliage