Golden Oregano
About
In the summer, golden oregano produces spikes of pinkish flowers with whorls of purple-tinged green bracts that attract bees. The clusters of blooms sit on tall red stems above a mat of small, oval, chartreuse, somewhat downy leaves on square stems.
Information
Other names: Origanum Vulgare 'aureum
Translations: Golden Ρίγανη, Aukso papaja, ذهبية الأوريجانو, Golden origan, Oregano de Aur, Zlatni Origano, ゴールデンオレガノ, Златна Оригано, Golden Origano, הזהב אורגנו, Golden rau oregano, 골든 오레가노, Golden oregano, गोल्डन अजवायन की पत्ती, Golden Orégano, Золоті орегано, 金奥勒加诺, Golden Origano, Золотые орегано, Golden Orenga, Златни риган
Physical Description
The plant has tiny, rounded leaves that turn golden in colder weather. Small pink and lavender flowers bloom in summer.
Colors: golden with pink or lavender flowers
Tasting Notes
Flavors: Minty, floral
Mouthfeel: Soft leaves
Food complements: Pasta, Meat
Wine complements: Chianti, Red wines
Beverage complements: Martini
Substitutes: Thyme
Selecting and Buying
Seasonality: may, june, july, august, september
Peak: june, july
Choosing: Look for good strong leaves, no brown spots. It is preferable if the plant has not flowered.
Buying: Carried at many stores, might have to find a specialty herb store in some areas.
Procuring: The plant likes full sun.
Preparation and Use
Use in soups or sauces or as a rub on meat.
Cleaning: A good rinse should do the job.
Conserving and Storing
Lasts about a week in the refrigerator and can be frozen.
