Mexican Oregano
Lippia origanoides
Family: Verbenaceae
It gets confusing because there are several plants called “Mexican oregano” but this IS the real one. The botanical name (to make things more confusing) recently changed from Lippia graveolens to L. origanoides.
Growing 3-6’ tall, this plant is semi-deciduous, it can get frozen back (cut back and keep watered if this happens).
Plant in full sun, takes moderate water when established. Plant is root hardy to 20°F.
Flowers attract butterflies and other nectar-seeking insects.
The flavor has notes of lemon and camphor, which adds a complexity to sauces; Mexican oregano has undertones that seem to be a more natural fit with Mexican cuisine.
There are 174 species of Lippia, most of which are tropical shrubs that are found around the world. The genus Lippia was named after Augustin Lippi (1678–1705), a French naturalist and botanist (with Italian origins). The old species name, graveolens, is derived from two Latin words: gravis, meaning 'heavy', and olens, meaning 'smelling'. The new species epitaph, origanoides, means “like oregano”, distinguishing this plant from the plants called oregano from the Mediterranean in the genus Origanum.
There are a few other plants referred to as “Mexican oregano” like Poliomintha maderensis.
Flat desert areas, chaparral communities, slopes and hillsides—rare in Texas, reputed in New Mexico, and south through most of Mexico.