What other names does the Cuban oregano go by? A guide to its common aliases

Other names for the Cuban oregano

Because the whole plant is fuzzy, it is called "velvet fragrant tea herb"; because it releases fragrance when touched, it is also called "touch-and-linger 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, patchouli, Indian mint, passing-hand fragrance, mint left-hand fragrance.

The habits of the 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 the 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; too much moisture easily causes root rot and death.

The flower language of the Cuban oregano

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

Why the Cuban oregano only becomes fragrant after being touched

The reason the Cuban oregano releases fragrance is similar to the principle behind the mimosa's "shyness": when its leaves are stimulated by touch, the water inside the cells reacts, causing the turgor pressure of the pulvinus to change. Unlike the mimosa, the leaves of the Cuban oregano do not contract under turgor pressure; instead, the stomata used for internal air exchange expand, and a volatile substance with an apple scent diffuses through the stomata into the air. Actually, the Cuban oregano also gives off a faint fragrance at ordinary times, but this fragrance is relatively light and not easily noticed. When its leaves are touched, the leaf stomata expand and the fragrance is released, so people smell it, giving the impression that it becomes fragrant as soon as it is touched.

The value of the Cuban oregano

Ornamental value: potted ornamental plant. Place it in a high spot or hang it indoors, and it can also accent a table or desk. The leaves can be used to make tea or brew wine, and can also be used in cooking.

Medicinal value: taken raw with honey, its juice can relieve sore throat; brewed as hot tea, it can relieve stomach bloating; mashed and applied externally, it can reduce inflammation and relieve pain.