Marjoram (Origanum laevigatum and cultivars)

Ornamental Marjoram

Origanum laevigatum is a creeping perennial reaching 24 inches tall. Dark green leaves have a rich purple tint, and purplish‑pink flower clusters appear from late spring through autumn. ‘Herrenhausen’ (Zones 5–8) displays masses of showy pink flowers with maroon bracts on purplish stems. ‘Hopleys’ (Zones 7–10) is taller (up to 36 inches) with large, long‑blooming deep pink flowers and better heat tolerance.

Key Features

• Attractive purple‑tinted foliage and showy pink flowers.
• Excellent in stone walls and rock gardens.
• Attracts bees and beneficial insects; not a culinary herb.

Growing Conditions

Needs good drainage; poor to moderately fertile soil. Full sun.

Care & Propagation

Divide in spring or take basal cuttings in late spring. Problems: root and stem rots, aphids, spider mites.

Landscape Uses

Beds, borders; rock garden style.

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