Dittany of Crete (Origanum dictamnus)
Dittany of Crete (Origanum dictamnus) is an aromatic, low-growing sub-shrub valued for its silvery, woolly foliage and low maintenance needs in hot, dry gardens.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
Origanum dictamnus, known commonly as Dittany of Crete, is a charming, bushy sub-shrub prized for its highly aromatic, silvery-green foliage covered in woolly hairs. Native to the rocky slopes of Crete, this plant brings a Mediterranean textural element to the garden, forming attractive spreading mounds. Its mild oregano scent and attractive appearance make Origanum dictamnus a unique addition to herb collections.
This herbaceous perennial thrives in conditions mimicking its arid mountain home, indicating superior heat and drought tolerance once established. It requires minimal attention, fitting perfectly into low-maintenance, sunny landscapes. While historically significant in medicine, modern gardeners appreciate Dittany of Crete primarily for its ornamental appeal and light, unique seasoning potential.
Despite its mild culinary flavor compared to common oregano, the textural interest provided by the soft leaves of Origanum dictamnus, combined with small, pink/purple summer blooms, ensures its place in mixed borders, containers, and rock gardens. Ensuring excellent drainage is paramount for the successful long-term cultivation of this Mediterranean gem.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Lamiaceae
- Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
- Native Range: Crete
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 7-10
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 0.5-1 ft
- Spread: 1.5-2 ft
- Bloom Time: June to August
- Bloom Description: Pink to purple
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Water Needs: Dry to medium
- Maintenance Level: Low
How to Grow
For best results, plant Dittany of Crete in the spring after the danger of frost has passed, or purchase plants from a nursery in cell packs. The most critical factor for success with Origanum dictamnus is drainage; the plant thrives in gritty, sandy loams, preferring neutral to alkaline soils but tolerating average conditions provided they are dry. Locate it specifically in full sun, though young plants benefit from some afternoon shade in extremely hot climates.
Care for established plants is minimal, aligning with its low maintenance rating. Water only when soils become dry to medium, as perennial drought tolerance is high. Fertilization is usually unnecessary, especially if the soil is well-draining, as rich soils promote excessive, less flavorful growth. Prune stems back before flowers develop if you wish to encourage denser, bushier foliage.
If growing in colder regions (outside Zone 7), treat Origanum dictamnus as an annual. In containers, bring plants indoors before the first frost, but be aware they often struggle to overwinter indoors. When overwintering indoors, significantly reduce watering but ensure the soil does not dry out completely during the winter dormancy period.
Landscape Uses
Dittany of Crete excels in uses where its spreading, silvery mound can soften hard edges. It is highly recommended for herb gardens, integrating beautifully with other Mediterranean herbs that share similar preferences for sharp drainage and full sun. Its moderate height and spread make it an excellent choice for low edging along pathways or defining the front of a border display.
Beyond traditional garden beds, this plant shines in containers. Effective in window boxes, hanging baskets, or mixed pots, its trailing habit and aromatic foliage cascade attractively over the rim. Pair Origanum dictamnus with sun-loving companions like Lavender, Thyme, or Sedum, selecting partners that also tolerate drought and dislike high humidity.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
- Good Dried
Noteworthy Characteristics
Origanum dictamnus, commonly called dittany of Crete, is a bushy sub-shrub with aromatic foliage that typically grows in a spreading mound to 12” tall and to 18-24” wide, native to rocky slopes on the mountains of Crete. Stems are densely clad with aromatic, rounded, green leaves covered with white-woolly hairs, sometimes mottled with purple, possessing a mild oregano flavor. Tiny, two-lipped, pink to purple flowers bloom in pendant spike-like clusters resembling hops from mid to late summer. Dittany of Crete is best noted for its ornamental qualities, though it can be used fresh or dried for seasoning soups, sauces, and roasts.
Tolerances
- Rabbit
- Deer
- Drought
- Dry Soil
Potential Problems
This plant generally avoids serious insect or disease issues, which is a significant benefit for the gardener. The primary threat to Origanum dictamnus is fatal root rot. This occurs when the plant is situated in wet, poorly drained soils, especially if overwatered. Prevention involves amending heavy soils with grit or sand to ensure superior drainage, allowing the soil to dry between watering sessions as required by this drought-tolerant herb.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Dittany of Crete suitable for?
Origanum dictamnus is winter hardy in USDA Zones 7 through 10. Gardeners in cooler areas should treat it as an annual or plan to overwinter container-grown specimens indoors.
How large does Dittany of Crete grow?
This spreading perennial typically reaches a mature height between 0.5 to 1 foot tall, spreading outward to a spread of 1.5 to 2 feet wide, forming a dense mound.
What sun exposure does Origanum dictamnus need?
Origanum dictamnus performs best in full sun conditions. However, some afternoon shade during the hottest part of the day can benefit young plants in very hot summer climates.
When does Dittany of Crete bloom?
Dittany of Crete typically blooms from June through August, displaying small, attractive pink to purple flowers.
Conclusion
The unique, fuzzy foliage and robust tolerance for dry, sunny conditions make Dittany of Crete a standout choice for textural interest in the herb garden or dry borders. Ensure superior soil drainage to keep your Origanum dictamnus healthy and thriving throughout the season. Before planting, always confirm your local hardiness zone compatibility for this beautiful Cretan native.
Companion Planting
When selecting companions for Origanum dictamnus, prioritize plants that share its cultural needs for excellent drainage and low moisture once established. Thyme varieties, especially creeping or woolly types, and Greek Oregano make excellent partners, as they offer similar textures and thrive under the same full-sun exposure. Avoid moisture-loving companions like hostas or traditional woodland edge perennials, as these conditions will quickly lead to fungal issues, including the root rot that threatens Dittany of Crete.
Container Growing
Growing Origanum dictamnus in containers is a fantastic strategy, especially for gardeners slightly outside the ideal USDA Zone 7 minimum. Use a porous potting mix amended heavily with horticultural sand or perlite to mimic the gritty loam it prefers. Keep containers on a sunny patio and let the soil dry significantly between thorough waterings. This allows you to easily move the container to a protected spot or indoors before the first hard frost threatens the plant.
