Mexican “oregano”, Mexican sage
Lippia graveolens

Family: Verbenaceae

What it is like

An upright shrub. It grows 2 m high and spreads 30-150 cm wide. It has an aroma. The leaves are crinkled and downy. They are oblong and 6 cm long. The flowers are small and yellow-white. They are in clusters in the axils of leaves.

Where it is found

It is a tropical plant. They need frost free zones. They grow in full sunlight. They need well-drained soil. It needs a temperature above 5-10°C.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Australia, Central America (country/location of origin), Cook Islands, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Nicaragua, North America, Panama, Philippines, SE Asia, Tasmania, Tropical America, USA

How it is used for food

The leaves are added to dishes as flavouring. They have the flavour of oregano. They are used to flavour fish, sausages, tomato sauce, and other dishes. They can be dried and stored. The dried leaves can be used as tea.

It is sold in speciality stores.

Edible parts

Leaves, leaves - tea

How it is grown

Plants can be cut back and regrow. They can be grown from cuttings.

Its other names

Local names

Hierba dulce, Karabo, Mexican marjoram, Mexican wild sage, Oreganillo, Oregano hoja chica, Salvarreal de castilla, Te de pais

Synonyms

Phyla Lippia berlandieri Schauer;