Marjoram

Marjoram (Origanum majorana) is a cold-sensitive perennial herb or undershrub with sweet pine and citrus flavors. 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.

The name marjoram (Old French majorane, Medieval Latin majorana) does not directly derive from the Latin word maior (major). Marjoram is indigenous to Cyprus and southern Turkey, and was known to the Greeks and Romans as a symbol of happiness.

Cultivation

Considered a tender perennial (USDA Zones 7-9), marjoram can sometimes prove hardy even in zone 5. Marjoram is cultivated for its aromatic leaves, either green or dry, for culinary purposes; the tops are cut as the plants begin to flower and are dried slowly in the shade.

It is often used in herb combinations such as herbes de Provence.

Related species

Oregano (Origanum vulgare, sometimes listed with marjoram as Origanum majorana) is also called wild marjoram. It is a perennial common in southern Europe in dry copses and on hedge-banks, with many stout stems 30–80 cm high, bearing short-stalked, somewhat ovate leaves and clusters of purple flowers. It has a stronger flavor than marjoram.

Hardy marjoram or French marjoram, a cross of marjoram with oregano, is much more resistant to cold, but is slightly less sweet. Origanum pulchellum is known as showy marjoram or showy oregano.

Uses

Marjoram is used for seasoning soups, stews, dressings and sauce. Majorana hortensis herb has been used in the traditional Austrian medicine for treatment of disorders of the GI tract and infections. In Germany, marjoram is known as "Goose Herb" (Gänsekraut) for its traditional use in seasoning roast goose; the goose is roasted with dried marjoram inside.

References:

Marjoram - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia http://bit.ly/19XDIFp



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Best Herbs for Container Growing » Harvest to Table http://buff.ly/RMMWhU