Known as Variegated Cuban Oregano, Plectranthus amboditus it is not true oregano, thyme, mint, or cedarwood but a hardy exotic perennial herb. The plant is native to Cuba. It grows well in full sun to partial shade. This is an easy growing herb. This herb gardening guide will give you some tips on planting herbs.
This herb does well in most areas. It is a drought-resistant plant, so it will do well in dry climates as well as some extreme sunny climates. Plant it where it gets 6 hours of sunlight most days. If you live in a colder climate, you will have to put it under partial shade during the cooler spring months.
This herb can be hardy even with some disease, insect, and fungal attacks. It will take any insects and disease with a good dose of fungicidal oils. Try to keep the plant from being planted directly above a frost, cool trunk, or cold frame. You will need to provide adequate light for the variegated Cuban oregano to grow. There are several varieties that are heat resistant, so they can be brought indoors when the weather is warm.
There are several types of pests and animals that enjoy eating this aromatic, flavorful herb. Some of the gardeners that like this herb plant are using it to spice up rabbit dishes. The best way to protect your plants from animals and insects is to have a good pest control plan. This is not always an easy task because there are so many different pests and diseases that can appear in one’s garden. You will have to make sure that you are prepared to get rid of any insect or animal that may show up in your garden.
Two of the most common animals that enjoy the flavor of the variegated Cuban oregano are rabbits and rats. You should also have a problem with raccoons. It is important to have a repellent to keep them away from your potted plants, soil, and plants. You can put cream of tartar or any other repellent that contains grasse oil into containers that you plan to use on your plants. This will work to deter raccoons from coming near your potted herbs.
The beauty of growing this type of oregano in your garden is that it is so easy for pests to attack the plant. These are plants that have thysanovalose, a sugar coating on their foliage, which attracts certain pests that eat the leaves. Rats and rabbits will be especially attracted to the sweet taste of the variegated Cuban oregano leaves.
During the growing season, it is important to water all of your plants thoroughly and allow them to recover fully before you replant them. Try to water less during the dry winter months. When you water your new plants, use very clean water that has been boiled for ten minutes. Make sure that you only spray the leaves and stems, and never wash them off. This will help to preserve the flavor of the herbs.
In order to get the most out of growing and harvesting this herb, it is best to harvest at least four separate seasons. This way, you will have fresh oregano to enjoy throughout the growing season. Once the plant starts to produce, you can then freeze the unused leaves, keeping them for future use. Many grocery stores sell small containers for freezing. If you have not yet discovered the great taste of these types of herbs, then you need to start shopping for them today.