Roosevelt weed, Mexican oregano, Hierba Luisa
lippia graveolens
Also known as: ["Roosevelt weed","Mexican oregano","Hierba Luisa"]
Overview
A perennial shrub native to Mexico and Central America, valued for its aromatic leaves used as a culinary herb, particularly as a substitute for oregano in Mexican cuisine.
Benefits & Perks
["culinary herb","fragrant flowers","drought tolerant","deer resistant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Verbenaceae |
| Genus: | Lippia |
| Botanical Name: | Lippia graveolens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a warm, sunny area or container in a sheltered patio
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to maintain shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; indoors, place near a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct sun indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F/18–29°C); sensitive to frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options like compost tea.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), high humidity, indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss, or water propagation.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, container, water or soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent stems; maintain humidity; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or leggy growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; dispose of clippings; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Use fresh well-draining soil; trim roots if necessary; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes growth and prevents congestion.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; gently remove plant; trim roots; add fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect with frost cloth; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced fragrance; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; mist leaves in extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLippia graveolens is generally considered non-toxic to cats. The plant does not typically cause harmful effects when consumed by felines in normal quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Non-toxicLippia graveolens is generally considered non-toxic to dogs. The plant is not known to cause significant adverse effects when ingested by canines in typical amounts.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicLippia graveolens, commonly known as Mexican oregano, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when consumed in large amounts. The plant's essential oils may irritate the digestive tract in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lippia graveolens the same as oregano?
A: No, Lippia graveolens is commonly known as Mexican oregano, but it is botanically distinct from true oregano (Origanum species).
Q: Can Lippia graveolens be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors, but it requires ample sunlight and good air circulation to thrive.
Q: Is Lippia graveolens safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Verbenaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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