what does marjoram plant look like

A subtly colored plant, marjoram has thin, gray-green leaves and, in early summer, small knot-like flowers along the stem ranging in color from lilac to white. It grows well in the garden or in containers, and you can plant a nice kitchen window box using marjoram with parsley, basil, and summer annuals.

How do you identify marjoram plants?

In an herb garden, it can be hard to distinguish between the two culinary herbs, since both marjoram and oregano have oval-shaped, fuzzy green leaves and purple flowers. Marjoram leaves tend to cluster at the tips of the branches, whereas oregano leaves tend to dot the entire stalk of the plant.

Does marjoram come back every year?

Marjoram (Origanum majorana) is a perennial herb usually grown as an annual for the fragrant foliage which is used to flavor dressings and meat dishes. ... Marjoram is considered a tender perennial, yet has proven hardy even in Zone 5.

What does marjoram do for the body?

It is also used as a “nerve tonic” and a “heart tonic,” and to promote better blood circulation. Marjoram oil is used for coughs, gall bladder complaints, stomach cramps and digestive disorders, depression, dizziness, migraines, nervous headaches, nerve pain, paralysis, coughs, runny nose; and as a “water pill.”

How do you look after marjoram?

Water pots regularly, but avoid overwatering or the roots may rot. Keep plants compact by trimming growth after flowers fade in summer, then give them a boost by applying a liquid fertiliser.

What foods go well with marjoram?

Dried marjoram is a popular addition to salad dressings, meat dishes, and preserved meats such as German sausage. Used in both fresh and dried form, marjoram is subtler than its relative oregano and well suited to delicate vegetables, tomato-based dishes, such as tomato sauce and pizza, and poultry seasoning.

Is marjoram same as oregano?

Oregano is easily confused with its close relative, marjoram. ... Marjoram's botanical name is Origanum majorana, so it is the same genus as oregano but it is a different species. Marjoram's gentler flavor is sweeter than oregano, which is slightly woodsy with a warm and aromatic taste.

Should you let marjoram flower?

Once you have a marjoram plant blooming fully, the flavor of the leaves isn't going to be as good. It's still perfectly safe to eat them, though, along with the flowers, which taste like a milder version of the leaves. ... You can also harvest seeds from the spent blooms for more of this delightful herb.

Does marjoram need full sun?

Quick Guide to Growing Sweet Marjoram

Space plants 12 inches apart in an area with full sun and fertile, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.7 to 7.0.

Can you propagate marjoram?

Larger marjoram plants can easily be propagated simply by pulling away a rooted section from the side of the plant, but taking cuttings enables you to make a larger number of new plants, even from a fairly young mother plant.

Does marjoram help you sleep?

Marjoram. Marjoram essential oil has many uses including its ability to aid sleep. It can be applied topically to the nape of your neck to relieve stress, and it is a popular oil to calm children before naps. ... Roll on the bottoms of your feet and the back of your neck for a deeper night's sleep.

Is marjoram good for hair?

Rejuvenates hair: Rinsing hair with Marjoram provides vital nutrients and minerals, helping to rejuvenate the hair from its roots and emerge with a smooth texture. Dilute 10 to 15 drops of Marjoram essential oil into a pail of lukewarm water.

Is marjoram good for skin?

May have antimicrobial activity. Marjoram has also demonstrated antimicrobial properties. Common uses include applying its diluted essential oil to your skin to treat fungal infections, as well as taking supplements to help treat overgrowth of gut bacteria (6, 7 , 8 ).

How long does it take for marjoram to grow?

Sow marjoram seeds evenly and cover with ¼ inches of fine soil. Firm the soil lightly and keep evenly moist. Seedlings will emerge in 14-21 days, possibly longer in cooler soils.

Is marjoram easy to grow?

Magnificent marjoram, with its aromatic leaves and warm flavor, is easy to grow and available in many varieties. Herb gardeners growing marjoram (Origanum majoricum) enjoy its fragrant and aromatic leaves which are highly valued for seasoning.

Does marjoram die back in winter?

Marjoram is a half hardy annual; this means it will only last for one season and it is unlikely that it will survive through the winter months. It is best to sow fresh seeds in spring however some varieties of marjoram are perennial and will survive over the winter months.

What spices go well with marjoram?

Flavor of Marjoram

This delicate, sweet herb has bitter notes and pairs well with basil, cumin, paprika, rosemary, and sumac.

What does marjoram smell like?

Marjoram is part of the mint family, and actually a sub-species of oregano. It's a delicate herb with a sweet, floral, lightly spiced fragrance.

How long does dried marjoram last?

Properly stored, dried marjoram leaves will generally stay at best quality for about 1 to 3 years. To maximize the shelf life of dried marjoram leaves purchased in bulk, and to better retain flavor and potency, store in containers with tight-fitting lids.

Does marjoram have another name?

In some Middle Eastern countries, marjoram is synonymous with oregano, and there the names sweet marjoram and knotted marjoram are used to distinguish it from other plants of the genus Origanum. It is also called pot marjoram, although this name is also used for other cultivated species of Origanum.

What can you use if you don t have marjoram?

When you have neither fresh nor dried marjoram, the closest substitute is oregano. The herbs are related and have a similar flavor profile. However, oregano's flavor is stronger.

What is oregano called in England?

What's known as wild marjoram in Britain is the species Origanum vulgare. It's frequently known as oregano in Europe. It's one of our staple herbs, but if you're a gardener you'll probably be familiar with it, too.