Thyme vs Oregano: Leaves Growth plus Harvest
The thyme vs oregano difference shows first in the leaves. University of Illinois Extension describes thyme as a low growing, wiry stemmed perennial 6 to 12 inches tall with small gray green leaves. Greek oregano is a loose, open plant from six inches to two feet tall. Both want full sun plus good drainage.
The short answer
Thyme is a low, woody perennial 6 to 12 inches tall with tiny gray green leaves 1/4 to 1/2 inch long. Oregano is a looser, open plant from six inches to two feet tall with gray green leaves plus purple or white flowers. Both need full sun plus well drained soil, plus both are cut just before flowering.
How do thyme and oregano leaves differ?
NC State Extension describes thyme leaves as tiny, dark grayish green plus linear to ovate, only 1/4 to 1/2 inch long with margins that roll under. University of Illinois Extension describes Greek oregano as a loose, open plant with gray green leaves plus small purple or white flowers. UF/IFAS notes oregano has tiny purple flowers plus blooms all summer.
| Trait | Thyme | Oregano |
|---|---|---|
| Botanical name | Thymus vulgaris | Origanum vulgare |
| Height | 6 to 12 inches | Six inches to two feet |
| Stems | Stiff plus woody | Loose, open growth |
| Leaves | Tiny, 1/4 to 1/2 inch, gray green | Gray green |
| Flowers | White to lilac clusters | Small purple or white |
| Site | Full sun, well drained soil | Full sun, good drainage |
Source: University of Illinois Extension, NC State Extension plus UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions.
Do they grow the same way?
Both are perennials for full sun. University of Illinois Extension notes thyme is much easier to grow from divisions or cuttings than seed plus turns woody with age, so cut it back hard in spring every few years. Oregano seed often does not come true, so plants from cuttings are suggested. True oregano is only marginally hardy in zone 5.
How should each be harvested?
University of Illinois Extension notes thyme stems can be cut through the season but are ideally cut just before the plant flowers. Oregano harvest can begin just before flowering. Remove stem tips plus leave 4 to 6 pairs of leaves so side shoots form. Letting oregano flower reduces or stops growth completely.
How to: step by step
- Compare leaf size: thyme leaves are tiny, oregano leaves are larger.
- Compare habit: thyme stays low plus woody, oregano grows loose plus open.
- Grow both in full sun with well drained soil.
- Start thyme from divisions or cuttings plus oregano from cuttings.
- Snip stems just before the plants flower.
- Hang stems in small bunches to dry, then strip the leaves.
Troubleshooting
Thyme dies over winter: poorly drained soil. University of Illinois Extension notes wet soil over winter shortens its useful life.
Thyme turns woody: age. Cut it back hard in spring every few years to push out young, tender stems.
Oregano stops growing: the plant has bloomed. Harvest stem tips just before flowering so side shoots form.
For related reading see cannabis leaf anatomy, companion plants when growing marijuana plus what roles do bees play in outdoor cannabis. Kind Seed Co also stocks cannabis seeds.
Sources
- Thyme, University of Illinois Extension
- Oregano, University of Illinois Extension
- Oregano, UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions
- Thymus vulgaris, NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox
FAQ
Can thyme and oregano be grown together?
Yes. University of Illinois Extension notes both need a full sun location plus well drained soil. NC State Extension lists thyme as a low maintenance plant for sandy, rocky or loam soil that is occasionally dry. Give oregano more room, since it grows from six inches to two feet tall while thyme stays under a foot.
Are thyme and oregano perennials?
Yes. University of Illinois Extension lists both as perennials. NC State Extension lists common thyme as a woody, broadleaf evergreen perennial in the mint family hardy in zones 5 to 9. True oregano is only marginally hardy in zone 5, so a mulch of straw or evergreen boughs after the soil freezes aids winter survival.
Can they grow indoors?
University of Illinois Extension notes thyme can be potted in the fall plus grown all winter in a bright, sunny spot. Use a well prepared soil mix in a pot with ample drainage plus water as needed while the soil stays on the dry side. Some tender oregano types may need to be brought indoors for winter.
How do I dry these herbs?
University of Illinois Extension suggests hanging cut thyme stems in small bunches in a dark, warm, well ventilated area. Hang oregano stems in a cool, dry, dark, well ventilated spot. Once the leaves are dry, strip them from the stems plus store them in sealed containers. UF/IFAS notes oregano stems can be cut plus dried.
How do you start oregano from seed?
University of Illinois Extension notes oregano seed often does not come true, so plants from cuttings are suggested. If you sow seed, place it on top of the growing media plus press it into the surface. Do not cover the seed, since light is needed for germination. Water the surface regularly so it stays moist.
