Ornamental Oregano 'Kirigami'
Origanum rotundifolium 'Kirigami'
1 quart pot
 
Fragrant blue-green foliage with whorls of smoky-pink bracts scampers along arching stems ending in perfect rosettes. Smaller, maroon-blushed flowers nestle and peek from within the tips of the hops-like foliage. Origanum Kirigami is a knock-out perennial for rock gardens, border edges, and patio or container plantings. The dusky coloring is accentuated with warmer, daytime temperatures and cooler nights. Foliage remains attractive all summer and is a lovely filler for fresh or dried bouquets. While the leaves are aromatic, don't add them to your salads as this oregano is usually not used in cooking.
 
Kirigami is perfect for the front of sunny borders, containers, hanging baskets, or window boxes. The charming flowers can be used in dried flower arrangements too.
 
Of the ornamental oreganos, 'Kent Beauty' has silvery blue-green foliage and pink and lime green bracts, while 'Kirigami' has pinkish-purple blooms and bracts that deepen to purple with cool weather. 'Kent Beauty' is often described as more brightly colored.
 
Herbaceous perennial
Zones 6-9
Full sun
Grows 6-9 in. tall x 8-12 in. wide
Drought-tolerant
Deer resistant
Toxic to dogs, cats & horses