Golden oregano

Closeup of golden oregano leaves.

* Common name: Golden oregano

* Botanical name: Origanum vulgare ‘Aureum’

* What it is: A low, perennial spreading herb with bright golden foliage. It’s edible but attractive enough to use in ornamental beds. Gets tiny lavender flowers in late summer.

* Size: 10 to 12 inches tall and spreads 2 to 3 feet in a few years

* Where to use: Good for adding color to herb and veggie gardens but also makes a bright low-grower in rock gardens, perennial gardens and shrub beds. Also useful as a trailer in pots and hanging baskets, as a sunny groundcover or for tucking in gaps between boulders. Best in full sun.

* Care: Cut back to a stub at end of winter. Can be harvested or trimmed anytime during summer if shoots are venturing too far. Also easy to divide in spring or fall. No spraying.

* Great partner: Plant under and around any white or yellow rose, such as ‘Carefree Sunshine’ or ‘Macy’s Pride.’ Gold and/or red daylilies are good perennial partners.

Golden oregano in a garden setting.