Ornamental Oregano 'Herrenhausen' (Origanum laevigatum 'Herrenhausen'): Showy Pink Bracts for Late Summer

Botanical Profile

Family: Lamiaceae (lay-mee-AY-see-ee)
Genus: Origanum (or-RI-ga-num)
Species: laevigatum (lee-vih-GAY-tum)
Cultivar: 'Herrenhausen'

Description

'Herrenhausen' is a clump-forming ornamental oregano growing 18–24 inches tall and wide. The small, oval, aromatic leaves are gray-green. From mid-summer to fall, it produces loose, arching panicles of tiny, tubular, pink flowers—but the real show is the persistent, papery, deep pink to purple bracts that remain colorful long after the flowers fade, creating a hazy, cloud-like effect.

Cultivation

Requires full sun and sharply drained, alkaline, lean soil. Drought tolerant once established. Hardy in zones 5–9. Cut back to basal foliage in late winter. Divide every 3–4 years in spring. Avoid wet winter soils.

Garden Uses

The long-lasting bracts provide color and texture from July to October. Excellent in gravel gardens, rockeries, and dry borders. Combines superbly with lavenders, salvias, yarrows, and ornamental grasses. The foliage is edible (mild oregano flavor) but less pungent than culinary oregano. Attracts bees and butterflies. Deer and rabbit resistant.

Notes

Named for the Herrenhausen Gardens in Hanover, Germany. A Royal Horticultural Society Award of Garden Merit winner.