Guardians of Leaves of Oregano
Where spice racks rattle and broom closets creak, Hobgoblins tidy, test, and tiptoe watchful stewards of domestic disorder.
| Height: | 2 - 3 Feet |
| Temperament: | Meticulous, moody, and loyal |
| Delight: | Copper, orderly spice racks, oregano, candlelight, whispered thank yous |
| Detests: | Mismatched Tupperware lids, harsh overhead lighting, neglected brooms, synthetic air fresheners |
| Botanical Link: | Leaves of Oregano |
Hobgoblins are whispered of in dusty corners and behind cupboard doors. First noted in domestic folklore from 14th-century northern Europe, these soot-smudged creatures have long been mistaken for house spirits, cleaning fairies, or mischievous imps.
According to folklore, Hobgoblins are neither malicious nor benevolent. They are conditional. Treat your home with care, and they become unseen allies: straightening rugs, chasing off silverfish, and adding just the right pinch of seasoning to your stew. Disrespect your space or mock their efforts, and you’ll find your spoons mismatched, your oregano stale, and your best socks mysteriously unpaired.
Drawn to homes rich in warmth, ritual, and spice, Hobgoblins inhabit pantries, broom closets, behind radiators, and anywhere oregano leaves have been freshly crumbled.
They awaken in the twilight hours to inspect their domain. Satisfied Hobgoblins reward households with calm kitchens and perfect seasoning. Unhappy ones may pour salt in the sugar jar or hide your matches before a dinner party.
| Behavior | Likelihood | Notes |
| Rearranging spice jars | ★★★★★ | Always puts oregano front and center. |
| Unknotting yarn | ★★★☆☆ | Enjoys order, but only on Tuesdays. |
| Tugging on broom bristles | ★★★★☆ |
A sign of affection or disapproval, depending on mood. |
Hint: Hobgoblins are most active when a home is quiet but well-lived-in. Think: soft music, a half-simmered pot, or freshly washed linen.
Though rarely seen outright, Hobgoblins leave behind subtle visual traces. Look closely in dusty corners or behind furniture. If you find a neat trail of small, clean footprints leading toward your pantry, one has likely paid a visit. They’re especially drawn to tidy kitchens and well-organized spice shelves. A perfectly ordered spice rack, with oregano placed front and center, is often a silent sign of their approval. Some also report finding their broom bristles neatly rearranged or their copper pans mysteriously polished overnight.
Hobgoblins are nocturnal organizers. Their presence is often betrayed by soft, methodical tapping from inside drawers, the gentle rustle of tea towels, or the occasional metallic clink of spice jars being moved. Always with purpose, never at random. These sounds usually occur at twilight or just before dawn, when the house is quiet enough for their work to go unnoticed by all but the most attentive listener.
The scent of oregano is the surest sign a Hobgoblin is near. If a wave of the herb’s sharp, green aroma suddenly fills the air. Especially in a room where no cooking is happening. It’s likely they’ve passed through. This sudden fragrance, known among herbalists as the Goblin’s Note, is often followed by small domestic blessings: a perfectly seasoned soup, a clutter-free countertop, or an unexplained sense of calm in your space.
Ingredients: 1 tbsp dried oregano, 1 tsp vinegar, a copper key, a candle
Method:
Outcome: Said to appease Hobgoblins and ensure flavorful meals and smooth routines for a month.
| Metric | Score |
| Global Population | ★★★☆☆ |
| Human Encounters | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Conservation Status |
Common, yet seldom seen |
Oregano is the Hobgoblin’s favorite herb—and ours too. Bring the warmth of their world into your kitchen with our wax-sealed Leaves of Oregano, ethically sourced and dried with care.
