Origanum laevigatum “Hopley’s  Purple”

Ornamental Oregano
Origanum laevigatum “Hopley’s Purple”
Type: Perennials
Exposure: Full Sun
Water: Regular / Drought Tolerant

Native to Turkey and Cyprus, this ornamental relative of mint reaches 2ft (60cm) high while sprawling to 3 ft (90cm) wide with aromatic grey-green leaves that turn reddish-purple when the weather becomes cooler. Branching clusters of half inch (1.25cm) purple, tubular blossoms and colorful bracts appear from late spring through summer into fall. These bracts overlap each other in a sort of herringbone fashion and form an attractive collar beneath the blooms. The flowers are popular for dried flowers, as they hold their color well. This is a good choice for growing over rock walls, in containers, or near the front of a mixed border where it can weave its way between other plants. Also, it’s extremely attractive to bees and butterflies, as my photobombing friend in the third photo can confirm.

Cheers,

John