Oregano is a bushy, spreading perennial with abundant oval leaves and purple blooms. To avoid being disappointed, buy a plant that you have tested by crushing a few leaves and smelling or tasting them. It should have a distinct aroma of oregano. Grow in full sun, in average to sandy soil--add lime if soil is acid. Use the fresh or dried leaves with tomatoes, cheeses, eggs, beef, pork, poultry, shellfish, potatoes and sauces. Use the dried flowers in floral arrangements and use the branches in baths. To preserve this wonderful herb, clip fresh as needed, harvest at the time of bloom and hang-dry or freeze.