Mexican Oregano
A genus of four species of shrubs and subshrubs, found in arid regions of SW USA and N Mexico. They have small, simple leaves and tubular flowers. One or two species are cultivated for their aromatic foliage and attractive flowers. Poliomintha bustamanta is the most widely grown species. It has a similar scent to Oregano (Origanum spp.). Poliomintha incana syn. Hedeoma incana (frosted mint, rosemary mint) is also used for flavoring.

Robust, semi-evergreen or deciduous shrub or subshrub with well-spaced, ovate to elliptic leaves, 7-15mm (¼-½in) long. Pale pink to violet, tubular flowers, to 3.5cm (1⅜in) long, are borne in the axils of upper leaves in summer.

Common Name:	Mexican Oregano
Botanical Name:	Poliomintha bustamanta syn. P. longiflora, Hedeoma longiflora
Genus:	Poliomintha
Family:	Lamiaceae
Native Location:	Mexico and Southwestern N America
Cultivation:	Well-drained, sandy soil in sun.
Propagation:	By semi-ripe cuttings in summer.
Harvest:	Leaves are picked as required for flavoring.
Height:	30cm-1.2m (1-5ft)
Width:	30cm-1.3m (1-5ft)
Hardiness:	Z8-10
Parts Used:	Leaves
Properties:	An aromatic herb with an oregano-like flavor.
Culinary Uses:	Fresh or dried leaves are used as a substitute for oregano in Mexico and Texas.
Bibliography:	Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited Pg 326