Plectranthus amboinicus / Cuban Oregano
Description: A tender perennial succulent with aromatic foliage. Often grown as a houseplant but can thrive outdoors in warm season regions or in summer. Plants grow between 12 and 18 inches tall and may develop a trailing habit, making it attractive in hanging baskets. As an in-ground plant, it will spread to a small mounded ground cover. Cuban oregano may burn in full sun and perform better in some light shade.
Harvesting: The leaves are brittle and will fall off in your hand if you handle the stems too roughly, so simply holding a tray under the stems and running your fingers down them will quickly strip the leaves. Judicious pruning will allow you to harvest the plant and still have an attractive plant growing. Never harvest more than 2/3 of the plant at one time.
Use: Leaves can be used just like regular oreganos. Fresh leaves, in small amounts, are used in soups and stews, and in stuffing for poultry and other meats. Also, is used as a substitute for sage. Be cautious, as the plant is very strongly flavored and can overpower other seasonings.
