A wonderfully aromatic, evergreen to semi-evergreen herb with small, deep green leaves and a stronger, spicier flavour than traditional oregano. ‘Hot & Spicy’ is perfect for anyone who loves bold Mediterranean flavours, making an excellent addition to herb gardens, raised beds and sunny containers. In summer, it produces clusters of delicate pink-purple flowers that are loved by pollinators.
Easy to grow and drought tolerant once established, this versatile herb is as ornamental as it is useful in the kitchen. The leaves can be harvested throughout the growing season and are delicious in pizzas, pasta sauces, roasted vegetables and Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
Annual or Perennial: Herbaceous perennial
Type: Culinary herb
Style: Mediterranean, cottage garden, wildlife garden, kitchen garden, container planting
Months of Interest: April – October (flowers typically July – September)
Scientific Name: Origanum vulgare ‘Hot & Spicy’
Common Name: Hot & Spicy Oregano
Origin: Origanum vulgare is native to Europe, North Africa and western Asia. ‘Hot & Spicy’ is a cultivated variety selected for its particularly pungent flavour.
Light: Thrives in full sun and produces the most aromatic foliage when grown in a warm, bright position.
Water: Water regularly while plants are establishing. Once mature, oregano is drought tolerant and prefers to be kept on the drier side. Avoid overly wet conditions, particularly during winter.
Soil: Prefers free-draining soil and thrives in sandy or gritty conditions. Add horticultural grit to heavier soils or use a peat-free compost mixed with grit when growing in pots.
Feed: Requires very little feeding. Overfeeding can reduce the intensity of the flavour, so a light application of balanced fertiliser in spring is more than enough.
Pruning Tips: Trim lightly after flowering to keep plants compact and encourage fresh new growth. Cut back any dead stems in early spring before new growth appears.
Wildlife Value: The nectar-rich flowers are highly attractive to bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects.
Hardiness: Fully hardy in most parts of the UK, typically tolerating temperatures down to around -15°C once established.
Sprouts Top Tip: Harvest the leaves just before the plant flowers for the strongest flavour, and dry any surplus to enjoy throughout the year.
Did You Know? The name oregano comes from the Greek words oros (mountain) and ganos (joy), meaning “joy of the mountain” – a nod to its abundance on sunny Mediterranean hillsides.
