Lippia graveolens

Lippia graveolens is a species of flowering plant in the verbena family, Verbenaceae, that is native to the southwestern United States (Texas and southern New Mexico), Mexico, and Central America as far south as Nicaragua. Common names include Mexican oregano, redbrush lippia, orégano cimarrón, scented lippia, and scented matgrass.

Description

Lippia graveolens is a perennial shrub that grows to be 1–3 m (3.3–9.8 ft) in height. The plant has a strong aroma and produces small white or pink flowers. The leaves are used in cooking as a spice, similar to oregano.

Uses

The leaves of Lippia graveolens are used in traditional Mexican cuisine for flavoring dishes. The flavor is stronger and more robust than Mediterranean oregano, with a hint of citrus. It is a key ingredient in many traditional Mexican dishes, including chili con carne, enchiladas, and carnitas.

In addition to its culinary uses, Lippia graveolens is also used in traditional medicine. It is believed to have antifungal, antibacterial, and digestive properties. However, these uses have not been thoroughly studied by the scientific community.

Cultivation

Lippia graveolens is a hardy plant that can tolerate a variety of soil conditions, but it prefers well-drained soil and full sun. It is drought-tolerant and can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, or division.

See also

• List of culinary herbs and spices
• Mexican cuisine