Sweet Marjoram

Growth habit

Herbaceous

Perennation

Annual

Native distribution

Mediterranean

Biocultural value

Used since antiquity as a seasoning. Ancient Greeks also used it for its calming effects on the digestive system, tension headaches, coughing spasms and edema. Leaves have a delicate, oregano flavor and are used to season casseroles, egg and cheese dishes, pasta, vegetables, salad dressings and marinades as well as chevre type soft cheeses.

Location

Robison Herb Garden

Source of plant

Pinetree Garden Seeds

Description

Annual, biennial, or perennial herb to 60cm. Stems glabrous or tomentose, red. Leavs to 2cm, opposite, ovate, grey, pubescent. Inflorescence a dense terminal panicle; bracts grey-green, to 4x3mm, elliptic, obtuse; flowers tubular, white, mauve or pink, to 8mm; calyx untoothed, 2-lobed.

USDA Hardiness Zone

7

Special characteristics

food, tender perennial