ORIGANUM. Oregano. Europe, Asia. Semi-shrubby perennials of the mint family, some of them quite ornamental in foliage and flower. Most are mounding to matting in habit, with closely set pairs of round to oval, aromatic leaves. Their mint-like blossoms are carried in dense spikes, often with large, showy bracts. These are fine subjects for the rock garden, container plantings, borders and open banks. Sun, well drained soil, moderate to occasional watering when established. Hardiness varies, though all of the following will take 18^oF or less.

pulchellum. One of the best for the rock garden, this species forms a tight mat with ½" light green leaves. It is nearly everblooming, bearing small, conspicuously bracted flowers in generous 1' sprays.