Organic Cuban Oregano, Coleus amboinicus, synonym Plectranthus amboinicus. Known by a wide variety of names including Indian borage, country borage, French thyme, Indian mint, Mexican mint, Cuban oregano, soup mint, Spanish thyme.
While it is said to originate from Africa the name amboinicus is from the Indonesian island of Ambon where it was first recorded by the Portuguese Jesuit missionary and naturalist João de Loureiro
Human trade has now transported the plant across most tropical zones around the world
This highly aromatic plant is actually a member of the Mint family and like all mints it likes a regular watering regime in well drained but semi rich soil. Unlike most mints however it does support full sunshine but is better grown in semi shade as it does suffer water loss from it’s succulent leaves.
It’s strong oregano flavour means that it is a very popular food, particularly meat, flavourer in tropical climates where it thrives. It is also used as a hair conditioner and it’s essential is much sought after by both the perfume and pharmaceutical industry.
Organic Cuban Oregano is frost sensitive so is best grown as in a pot and brought inside in Winter.
While Organic Cuban Oregano can be grown from seeds we find tind that to get good results quickly Spring tip cuttings work best.