Also known as Lebanese Oregano · Syrian Oregano
Biblical Hyssop (Origanum syriacum) is an aromatic herb native to the Eastern Mediterranean, prized for its culinary and medicinal uses.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Ensure good drainage.
Well-drained, Sandy, Loamy
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers warm temperatures (18-24°C). Can tolerate some frost.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring; avoid over-fertilizing.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Origanum syriacum thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, especially during cooler months.
Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.
Prune Origanum syriacum in early spring to shape the plant and remove any dead or damaged stems. Pinch back young plants to encourage bushier growth.
After flowering, trim back the stems to maintain a tidy appearance and promote further blooming. Harvest sprigs regularly for culinary use.
Propagate Origanum syriacum from seeds sown in spring or by taking semi-hardwood cuttings in summer. Seeds can be sown indoors and transplanted after the last frost.
Cuttings should be rooted in well-draining soil or a sand/peat mixture. Division of established clumps in spring is also effective.
Repot Origanum syriacum every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of potting soil and perlite or sand.
Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Repot in spring before new growth begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Biblical-Hyssop (Origanum syriacum)
Where Biblical-Hyssop (Origanum syriacum) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Origanum |
| Species | Origanum syriacum |
Similar in genus Origanum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
