Origanum

Origanum cordifolium is an endemic perennial from Cyprus. Its pending inflorescences and tiny flowers are really beautiful. The leaves are aromatic.

this interesting wild oregano is endemic to the island of Cyprus. We found it almost 10 years ago in Pafos Forest.

this Cretan perennial grows well in rock gardens in Israel. the leaves are scented and good for tea and cooking.

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A least known shrubelt, endemic to S Jordan. The leaves are thyme scented and the flowers are really tiny.

A least known shrubelt, endemic to S Jordan. The leaves are thyme scented and the flowers are really tiny.

A perennial plant of the Lebanon and Syria Mts.

A perennial plant of the Lebanon and Syria Mts.

Origanum punonense is a rare endemic shrublet of S Jordan.

and here is a 1:1 macro of this Cypriot endemic.

This waxy species of oregano was found near the Coro river in NE Turkey. The crashed leaves have gentle oregano scent. the plant grows in arid cliffs

Origanum syriacum is a common East Mediterranean shrublet. It has longish stems that are woody at base. The rounded leaves are srongly scented and used for a popular spice called "za'ater". The spice is added mainly to breads, cheese and salads. In the picture u can see the flowers that are rather shy and bloom in summer. In Israel the plant is protected against commercial picking, and these days there are several farms that cultivate it and reduce the pressure on wild populations.

Origanum vulgare is a very common perennial in Armenia and the Caucasus. Here u can see it in front of Lake Sevan.