Marjoram

Botanical name: Origanum marjorana

Life cycle: Perennial

Height: 25 - 50 cm

Position: Full sun

Soil preference: Well drained

Description

, also known as sweet marjoram, is a bushy, perennial growing 25-50 cm high and wide. It has small, grey-green oval leaves that are slightly hairy and highly aromatic. The tiny, white to lilac, flowers bloom in summer and give way to tiny, light brown seeds. The leaves have a delicate sweet flavour and subtle spicy taste.

Uses

Culinary - leaves can be eaten raw in salads or used to enhance the flavour of many vegetables, particularly carrots, mushrooms, beetroot, globe artichokes and broccoli. More delicately flavoured than oregano, it is used to flavour oils, vinegars or combined with other herbs, such as parsley and chives, in dressings for salad.

The leaves and stems can be harvested for drying soon after formation of the flower buds, but before blooming of the flowers. Cut the stems about 5 cm from the ground and then hang upside down to dry in a cool, shady spot. After they have dried, discard the stems, and store the dried herb in airtight jars.

Medicinal – also medicinally valuable due to its stimulant and antispasmodic properties. A good general tonic, marjoram is helpful for the relief of anxiety, insomnia, tension headaches and migraines. It has also been used for digestive and intestinal complaints such as bloating, cramps, and minor digestive upset. As an antimicrobial, marjoram can be useful in the treatment of open wounds and skin conditions.

Companion planting – plants are great for attracting butterflies and other beneficial insects to the garden. It is a good companion to most vegetables and aromatic herbs, like oregano, lavender, and rosemary. It is also a good companion to kiwifruit vines. It also grows well with basil, chives, parsley, sage, and thyme. Its flowers are very attractive to bees.

Growing conditions

an easy to grow herb well suited for growing in containers as well as the garden. As a tender perennial, marjoram is often grown as an annual as because it does not survive frost or cool conditions and must be replanted every year. prefers to grow in warmer areas, with full sun and light, well-drained soil.

Organically grown plant.

9 cm pot