ORIGANUM vulgare

Description

Height x Spread:  50cm x 50cm

Butterflies cannot resist the nectar-rich flowers of this native british perennial herb.  At times during the summer and early autumn the clusters of small, pale pink thyme-like flowers almost disappear from view cloaked by colourful wings.  Its neat aromatic oval foliage is a further bonus, slowly spreading across the ground helping to keep weeds at bay.

Tough and hardy, it will thrive in any free draining soil, especially an alkaline one, in either sun or part shade.  It is perfect for a wildflower plot or meadow, helping to attract pollinators, but also works well in a cottage garden or courtyard setting, its stems staying upright over winter to provide interesting structure.