Description
Form: Shrub.
Lifespan: Approximately 20 years.
Leaf retention: Drought- and cold-deciduous.
Growth rate: Moderate.
Mature Size: 3-6' (1-1.8m) high and as wide.
Flowers: Tiny, white, sometimes with a yellow throat, in rounded, flattened sparse clusters at the end of branch tips, fragrant.
Bloom: Spring through fall.
Fruit: Seed.
Leaves: Green, rough textured, serrated margins, edible with a strong lemon-oregano flavor. Fragrant when crushed. New leaves are light green.
Stems: Brown, no thorns.
Roots: Non-invasive.
Wildlife: The flowers attract pollinating insects. Browsing mammals are usually discouraged by the flavor of the leaves.
Toxic / Danger: No.
Origin: New Mexico, Texas, Mexico through into central South America.

Cultivation and Uses
USDA hardiness zones: 9-11. Lippia origanoides is severely damaged at 29°F (-1.67°C). It will come back from its roots down to 20°F (-6.7°C).
Heat tolerant: Yes.
Drought tolerant: Yes, but with loss of leaves.
Sun: Full sun.
Planting: Place in ground after the danger of frost is over. Lippia origanoides can be grown in pots.
Soil: Well draining, low to moderate organic content, pH 6.1-7.8 (slightly acidic to slightly alkaline).
Water after becoming established: Monthly to weekly, with more water required in higher temperatures. Use appearance as a guide to water frequency.
Mulch: Organic mulch, such as straw, is helpful when the plant is first placed in the ground.
Prune: Trimming stem ends may cause fuller growth. Prune to shape after flowering. Before the first frost of fall or winter, cut the plant at the ground and hang it inside, upside down, to dry the leaves for use.
Litter: Low except dropped leaves in cold and drought conditions.
Propagation: Seed, cuttings.
Uses: Ornamental, culinary. The leaves will crumble easily when dried and are used as seasoning for their lemon-oregano flavor. Many people prefer to use Mexican Oregano in place of standard Oregano (Origanum vulgare).

Comments
This plant is a member of the Verbena family (Verbenaceae). Its scientific synonym is Lippia graveolens. Another plant, an ornamental named Poliomintha maderensis: Lavender Spice, is also called Mexican Oregano.

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