What plant is Cuban oregano? Introduction to Cuban oregano and other plants of its family and genus

Other names of Cuban oregano

Because the whole plant is fuzzy, it is called fuzzy-leaved spurflower; because fragrance is produced upon touch, it is also called touch-me-fragrance (Chu Liuxiang) or a touch of fragrance. Of course, in many regions it is also called: left-hand fragrance, foreign mint, upside-down-hand fragrance, ageratum, fragrant herb, Indian mint, passing-hand fragrance, mint left-hand fragrance.

Habits of Cuban oregano

It has many branches, and the whole plant is covered with fine white fuzz. Touching it releases a rich fragrance.

It likes light and can be grown in sunlight all year round, but it is also fairly shade-tolerant.

It likes warmth and fears cold. It can only survive the winter when temperatures are above 0°C.

It likes loose, well-drained soil and prefers a relatively dry environment; excessive moisture easily causes root rot and death.

Flower language of Cuban oregano

Happiness, good fortune and good wishes, optimism, and a loving heart.

Why Cuban oregano only becomes fragrant after being touched

The reason Cuban oregano releases fragrance is similar to the principle behind the "shyness" of mimosa: when its leaves are stimulated by touch, the water inside the cells reacts, changing the turgor pressure of the pulvinus. Unlike mimosa, the leaves of Cuban oregano do not shrink under the effect of turgor pressure; instead, the stomata inside used for gas exchange expand, and a volatile substance with an apple fragrance diffuses into the air through the stomata. In fact, Cuban oregano also releases a faint fragrance at ordinary times, but this fragrance is relatively weak and not easily noticed. When its leaves are touched, the leaf stomata expand and the fragrance is released and smelled by people, giving the impression that it becomes fragrant as soon as it is touched.

Value of Cuban oregano

Ornamental value: potted ornamental plant. It can be placed in a high spot or hung indoors, and can also accent a table or desk. The leaves can be used to make tea or steep wine, and can also be used in cooking.

Medicinal value: taking the juice with honey raw can relieve sore throat; drinking it as hot tea can relieve stomach bloating; mashing it and applying it externally can reduce inflammation and relieve pain.