Cuban Oregano Plant Care

Cuban Oregano (Plectranthus amboinicus) belongs to the Lamiaceae family within the Plectranthus genus. Cuban Oregano is native to parts of Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and India. Cuban Oregano is also known as Mexican Mint, Indian Borage, Spanish Thyme.

Cuban Oregano displays a bushy, spreading perennial growth habit, reaching up to 1.5 ft tall with a spread of approximately 2 ft. Cuban Oregano produces small, tubular flowers in shades of purple, pink, or white.

Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.

Plectranthus amboinicus requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Cuban Oregano thrives in bright indirect light. Avoid placing Cuban Oregano in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Plectranthus amboinicus grows best at temperatures of 60–80°F. Cuban Oregano prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.

Well-draining soil mix with added perlite for good aeration. Good drainage is essential for Cuban Oregano to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Cuban Oregano every 6 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to the strength on the label.

Pause feeding in autumn and winter, when growth slows, and never fertilize dry soil — water first.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Repot every 1-2 years in spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

Cuban Oregano can be propagated through stem cuttings, division. Similar propagation techniques also apply to moth orchid plant care, which shares the same genus.

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Cuban Oregano is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, aphids. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Cuban Oregano grows outdoors in USDA Zone 9b – 11b. It survives winters down to planting zone 9b. Cuban Oregano is native to parts of Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and India. In cooler regions, grow Cuban Oregano as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.