Hello everyone, the cute little plant I'm introducing to you today is Cuban oregano (Plectranthus amboinicus). Because it releases fragrance when touched, it is also called touch-and-smell fragrant herb (Chu Liuxiang) or a touch of fragrance. So where does the fragrance of Cuban oregano come from? In fact, Cuban oregano normally also gives off a faint fragrance, but it is not easy for people to notice. When the leaves are stimulated, an easily volatile substance with an apple scent spreads through the stomata into the air, so it also enjoys the reputation of "apple fragrance," and smelling it makes people feel refreshed. Are you captivated by such a cute little plant? So how should Cuban oregano be grown? Below I will introduce the daily growing methods for Cuban oregano.

Growing Methods for Cuban Oregano

1. Soil

Soil is the foundation of life, and good plants cannot do without good soil, so before growing Cuban oregano, choosing suitable soil is very important. Cuban oregano likes loose, well-drained soil. Suitable soil types are as follows:

1. Peat plus perlite

2. Garden soil plus crushed coal residue

3. Sandy soil plus river sand and crushed stones

2. Light

Cuban oregano likes sunlight, but it is also relatively tolerant of shade. In daily growing, you can choose to place it on a balcony or hang it indoors. Of course, if it can receive more sunlight, the leaves will be thicker and fuller.

3. Watering

When watering Cuban oregano, water it thoroughly each time, and wait until the soil is almost completely dry before watering the second time. During the watering period, if rain is likely, you can extend it by one day and wait for the rain. Watering with rainwater can make the plant grow better.

The frequency of watering in summer is generally one to two times that in spring, while in winter what you look at for watering is not the soil, but the condition of the leaves. If the leaves appear wilted, then you can water.

Taboo: Never water too much. Cuban oregano likes a relatively dry environment, and excessive moisture easily causes root rot and death.

4. Fertilizing

For potted plants, although the soil is limited and the fertility is insufficient, when fertilizing you should follow the principle of light fertilizer applied frequently, that is, give a little fertilizer each time, then fertilize again after a few days. Never give too much fertilizer at once.

5. Propagation Methods

Propagate by cuttings; roots can form in about 20 days, and after rooting they can be transplanted into small flower pots. It is very easy to cultivate.

1. Cuttings: Cut the lowest end of the Cuban oregano cutting at a slant with a sharp knife, then place it in a ventilated and shaded place for a week. After that, you can see the wound at the lowest part of the stem contract, and then inserting it for cuttings will not cause root rot. Remember to insert the Cuban oregano cuttings into disinfected soil with a relatively high content of sand or perlite (if there is mold in the soil, it will rot).

2. Management: After inserting the Cuban oregano, water it thoroughly once, then place it in a ventilated place. Stop watering, and only after the soil dries, spray a little moisture around the flower pot in the morning and evening, increasing air humidity in summer. Persist this way for half a month to a month, and the roots should come out.

The Value of Cuban Oregano

1. Ornamental

It has ornamental value, which is also the value that people pay the most attention to. Its fragrance adds a lot of points to its appearance. Its temperament is unique; whether placed on a balcony, a desk, or hung indoors, it can add a touch of elegance.

2. Edible

The leaves of Cuban oregano can be used to cook dishes and make soup. When cooking, adding a few leaves can enhance the aroma of the food and increase people's appetite. Its leaves can also be used to make tea and infuse liquor, or the leaves can be directly eaten as a cold salad.

3. Medicinal

Crush the leaves of Cuban oregano, add honey or granulated sugar, mix with water, and drink it to relieve sore throat; boil the leaves to make tea or infuse in water, and taking it can relieve bloating and gastrointestinal discomfort; crush the leaves of Cuban oregano and apply them to insect bites to relieve itching and reduce inflammation;

4. Mosquito Repellent

The fragrance of Cuban oregano can repel mosquitoes and insects. Keeping a pot at home can let family members avoid mosquito harassment in summer.

5. Freshening the Air

Cuban oregano can absorb a variety of harmful gases including formaldehyde, ammonia, and sulfur dioxide, and can play a role in purifying indoor air.

The above are the growing methods for Cuban oregano. Friends who grow Cuban oregano at home can refer to them. After learning the growing methods, you will be able to cultivate greener and fuller Cuban oregano!