The Plant of Many Names

Cuban oregano. Spanish thyme. Mexican mint. Indian borage. Oregano brujo. Broadleaf thyme. Tropical oregano. Of the multitude of common names used for Plectranthus amboinicus, perhaps "three-in-one spice" is the most appropriate since oregano, thyme and mint pop up most frequently in its many monikers. It's definitely not a true oregano, a European native; the Amboinicus in its name points to an island in the Pacific. Whatever you call this plant, its fleshy leaves and fragrant aroma make it a delightful addition to the garden. A tender perennial in our area, it's a popular seasoning in the Caribbean and other parts of the world.