Mexican Oregano vs Italian Oregano

MuddyBuckets · January 23, 2021

I understand that the two oregano plants are different species. Can anyone explain the difference in taste and application as a spice? Would like to trade some pepper, okra or tomato seeds for some Mexican oregano seeds to cultivate.

bitterwort · January 24, 2021

Mexican oregano is a verbena relative, I believe, while Italian oregano and Greek oregano and several others are actually in the mint family. Texture and taste of the Mexican differs somewhat from the others, but many people substitute one for the other. My impression is that finding seeds of Mexican oregano is problematic for some reason, although I don't recall why. I've only seen plants. Perhaps if it is available as a fresh herb in your local grocery stores, you might try rooting it?

January 23, 2021	#1
MuddyBuckets Tomatovillian™ Join Date: Sep 2015 Location: Eastern/Coastal NC 8b Posts: 192	Mexican Oregano vs Italian Oregano I understand that the two oregano plants are different species. Can anyone explain the difference in taste and application as a spice? Would like to trade some pepper, okra or tomato seeds for some Mexican oregano seeds to cultivate. Last edited by MuddyBuckets; January 23, 2021 at 06:12 PM. Reason: spelling

January 24, 2021	#2
bitterwort Tomatovillian™ Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: MN Zone4b Posts: 292	Mexican oregano is a verbena relative, I believe, while Italian oregano and Greek oregano and several others are actually in the mint family. Texture and taste of the Mexican differs somewhat from the others, but many people substitute one for the other. My impression is that finding seeds of Mexican oregano is problematic for some reason, although I don't recall why. I've only seen plants. Perhaps if it is available as a fresh herb in your local grocery stores, you might try rooting it? __________________ Bitterwort