Marjoram

Origanum majorana

herb

A sweet, mild perennial herb closely related to oregano but with a softer, more nuanced flavor. Used extensively in Mediterranean cooking, particularly French, Greek, and Italian, for poultry, lamb, egg dishes, and soups. Sweet marjoram is slightly more delicate than oregano and less bitter. It grows as a tender perennial (zones 9 to 10) or annual in colder climates.

✅ Plant alongside

Good neighbors that attract beneficial insects or deter pests

• Most plants: Aromatic marjoram is a generally beneficial garden neighbor said to enhance the flavor of nearby vegetables
• Tomato: Deters aphids and may improve tomato flavor
• Pepper: Compatible neighbor with similar warm-weather requirements
• Squash: Aromatic deterrence of squash bugs and beetles

🛡️ Pest & disease prevention

Proactive ways to stop trouble before it starts. Tap a name with an arrow for its full guide

• Aphids →

  Water blast; insecticidal soap; introduce parasitic wasps

• Spider mites →

  Mist foliage in hot dry weather; neem oil every 7 to 10 days if needed

• Root rot →

  Excellent drainage essential; raised beds preferred; water deeply and infrequently

• Thrips →

  Reflective mulch; spinosad spray if severe

🌾 Harvest & storage

Harvest young stem tips regularly, cutting just above a leaf node to encourage branching. Best flavor just before the plant flowers. Pinch flower buds to extend the harvest season. Use fresh immediately or dry by hanging bundles in a warm, shady spot. Dried marjoram retains excellent flavor. Freeze chopped fresh leaves in olive oil for longer preservation.

🥗 Nutrition & benefits

Contains high levels of vitamin K, iron, calcium, and manganese. Rich in carvacrol, sabinene, and linalool, aromatic compounds with documented antimicrobial properties. Traditionally used as a digestive herb and to relieve headaches. Higher in antioxidants than most fresh herbs per gram.