Oregano originated in the eastern Mediterranean. It wasn't popular in the United States until after World War II, when soldiers who'd been stationed in the Mediterranean brought it home to flavor another import, pizza.

To grow: This hardy perennial will grow to more than 24 inches in height, and over several seasons, clumps of it will spread to a diameter of 24 inches or more.

As a seasoning: Individual stems can be cut, or leaves and flowers picked off, for culinary use. This herb is renowned for its use as a seasoning for pizza and for Greek and Mexican dishes. Oregano also enhances lamb, egg and fish dishes. Try it on summer vegetable salads. Oregano is usually better dried.