A hardy, perennial herb originating from the mountains in Greece where its leaves are widely used to enhance the flavour of tomato sauces, vegetables, and grilled meat. It is however most commonly known for its ability to add pep to a pizza. It can be used either fresh (for an intense flavour) or dried (when the leaves tend to have a sweeter, softer tang). In the border, the flowers, which appear from midsummer, will act as a magnet to bees and other pollinating insects.