Description
Origanum dictamnus is a many branched plant with discoid to ovate, grey-green leaves that are sited in pairs opposite each other. The slender arching stems and lanate leaves are covered in a velvety white down and are 13?, 25 mm in size
It is a healing, therapeutic and aromatic plant that only grows wild on the mountainsides and gorges of the Greek island of Crete, Greece. The dittany of Crete is widely used for food flavouring and medicinal purposes, in addition to it featuring as an ornamental plant in gardens.
This small, lanate shrub is easily recognised by the distinctive soft, woolly covering of white-grey hair on its stems and round green leaves, giving it a velvety texture. Tiny rose-pink flowers surrounded by brighter purple-pink bracts add an exuberant splash of colour to the plant in summer and autumn.Plant Specifications
| Common Name | Origanum dictamnus |
| Maximum Reachable Height | 0.50 to 1 feet |
| Flower Colour | Pale pink to purple |
| Bloom Time | June to August |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to grow |
Planting and care
You may also take basal cuttings in summer when the shoots are 8 inches above ground. Pot them into individual containers and place them in a cold frame or greenhouse until the root system has matured, then plant them outside. Dittany of Crete is not particular about its soil but does prefer dry, warm, well-drained soil that is slightly alkaline. Once the herb has established itself, it will need very little water.
Dittany of Crete care
Dittany of Crete can be grown in USDA growing zones 7 to 11 in full sun exposure. The plant can be propagated by seed in the early spring or by division in spring or fall. Seed germination takes about two weeks in a greenhouse. Plant the herb outside in early summer in containers such as hanging baskets, rockeries, or even as a green roof.
| Sunlight | Full Sun |
| Watering | Medium |
| Soil | Well-drained soil |
| Temperature | 20 degrees C (-6 degrees C) |
| Fertilizer | Apply any organic fertilizer |
Dittany of Crete special feature
Herb gardens. Edging. Borde Effective in window boxes, hanging baskets or containe
Dittany of Crete uses
Ornamental Use:
- The plant is used for ornamental purpose
Medicinal Use:
- Herbs