Cuban Oregano (Plectranthus amboinicus): Succulent Herb with Oregano Flavor

Overview

Cuban oregano (Plectranthus amboinicus), also called Spanish thyme, Indian borage, or Mexican mint, is a succulent, tender perennial herb with thick, fuzzy, oregano-scented leaves. Native to Africa and India, it's widely cultivated in the tropics and as a houseplant elsewhere.

Botanical Description

Spreading, semi-succulent stems 30–90 cm long. Leaves are ovate, 5–10 cm long, fleshy, densely hairy, gray-green, with a strong oregano-thyme aroma. Flowers are small, pale lavender, in terminal racemes, appearing sporadically. The plant is frost-tender and grown as an annual or indoor plant in temperate zones.

Taxonomy

Family:	Lamiaceae (lay-mee-AY-see-ee)
Genus:	Plectranthus (plek-TRAN-thus)
Species:	amboinicus (am-boy-IN-ih-kuss)
Synonyms:	Coleus amboinicus, C. aromaticus, Plectranthus aromaticus

Growing Conditions

• Light: Bright light to part shade; avoid hot afternoon sun.
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy; cactus/succulent mix ideal.
• Water: Moderate; allow to dry between waterings.
• Hardiness: USDA zones 10–11; houseplant elsewhere.

Uses

Culinary: Fresh leaves substitute for oregano in Caribbean, Indian, and Southeast Asian dishes. Use sparingly—flavor is potent. Medicinal: Traditional use for coughs, sore throat, skin conditions. Ornamental: Attractive foliage for containers and hanging baskets.

Propagation

Very easy from stem cuttings; roots in water or moist mix in days. Also from leaf cuttings. Share freely with friends!