Marjoram

Name Sweet marjoram; knotted marjoram

Botanical Name Origanum majorana

Family Lamiaceae

Native to Mediterranean and Turkey but is widely naturalized in North Africa, western Asia, parts of India and is widely grown elsewhere

Water Medium moist.

Sun Full sun; part shade in hot weather (afternoon shade)

Soil Well-drained (not too dry); fertile soil

Height 2 feet

Width 1 - 2 feet

Space 2 feet

Price

4" pots: $2.20

6" pots: $3.50

1 Gallon Root Pouch: 5.00

Clay pots and planters: Prices vary

Description

Marjoram has pale green leaves and small, white (sometimes light pink) flowers that grow in knot-like clusters on the length of trailing stems, hence the name "Knotted Marjoram". It is a vigorous grower when given the right conditions. Because the stems tend to drape, it works well in hanging baskets. It has one of the more delicate flavors in the oregano group and is widely used in Italian, Greek and Mediterranean cooking

Will Tolerate &

Keeping in Going

Does well in medium moist soils
Part sun in hot climates is sufficient.
It can be fertilized lightly (only when needed) with a water soluble fertilizer in Spring. We use Neptune's Organic Fish and Seaweed emulsion.
Excellent drainage is key to growing this plant

Won't Tolerate

Root rot in poorly drained soils
Dry soil

History

&

Points of Interest

Marjoram is a type of oregano that is native to the Mediterranean area. The Oreganos are slightly confusing because of the colloquial names that have been given to them. For example, "Marjoram" is the common English name given to the Origanum species, but Origanum vulgare (wild marjoram) is widely known as Oregano, and Origanum onites is sometimes called Greek Oregano. In addition, there are many hybrids which are given various names.
Origanum means "joy of the mountain", with the Greek oros (mountain) and ganos (brightness or joy).
The Greek legend surrounding this plant is this: Aphrodite, the goddess of love, took this plant from the very depths of the ocean to the top of a mountain where it could be closer to the sun. Since then, it has always been associated with the return of sunshine and warmth and the banishment of sorrow.
It is used in weddings and funerals; made into crowns for newly wed couples; and planted on the graves of the deceased.

Uses: Medicinal, culinary and aromatic

Medicinal: antiseptic properties; used to treat nervous anxiety, insomnia, tension headaches, colds and digestive complaints. Diluted oil is used externally to treat sprains and stiff joints; and muscular aches.

Culinary: Marjoram is said to have the most delicate flavor of the oreganos. It is widely used in Mediterranean cuisine.

Aromatic: Essential oil is used in the cosmetic industry.