Origanum onites or Cretan Oregano is a pretty and aromatic herb that grows in small mounds to about 40cm tall.
It has small leaves and red-hairy stems and in late summer it produces terminal clusters of small white flowers.
They can be grown in rock gardens and garden beds as well are veggie and herb gardens.
Attracts pollinators to your garden.
The leaves have a strong flavour which is not lost in cooking.
It is often used in tomato based Italian sauces and makes a great addition to Pizza.
It can also be used in salads and as a tonic in teas.
Best when used freshly picked but also very good when cut and hung to dry - as this one is so flavourful, it loses little in the drying process.
A dried bunch makes a great gift to any cook who has not got their own garden.