Sweet marjoram (Origanum majorana)

Sweet marjoram

Also known as: Pot marjoram

Sweet marjoram (Origanum majorana) is a plant species native to the Mediterranean region and the Arabian Peninsula. It is commonly cultivated for its aromatic leaves. This species is somewhat sensitive to cold temperatures. Sweet marjoram is often described as combining the flavors of sweet pine and citrus. It gets used as an herb for culinary purposes and to make essential oils.

Scientific classification

Species

Sweet marjoram (Origanum majorana)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Late spring, Fall

Harvest Time

30 cm to 60 cm

Plant Height

30 cm to 60 cm

Spread

Green, Gray, Silver

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

White, Pink, Purple

Flower Color

Green, Gray, Silver

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Images of Sweet marjoram

Distribution of Sweet marjoram

Distribution Map

Sweet marjoram is native to regions including the Mediterranean basin and parts of Western Asia. As a widely cultivated species, it has been introduced to various locations across Europe, Asia, and the Americas. It thrives in temperate to subtropical climates where it has adapted to a range of environments beyond its indigenous range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Dry slopes and rocky places

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Chefs can keep a small pot of sweet marjoram, and use its dried leaves in a similar way to its cousin, oregano, as a delicious spice in Italian recipes. Its small, green, bushy appearance makes it popular in gardens as borders or ground cover. Gardeners who want to attract butterflies and bees can also add this plant to their garden.

Symbolism

Happiness

Interesting Facts

Sweet marjoram, a much sweeter tasting herb than oregano, can be used in any savory dishes like meats, stews and soups. It was once regarded as a symbol of happiness to the Greeks and Romans. Newlyweds adorned their heads with garlands of marjoram that represented love and happiness. Even in death, marjoram was often left on the gravesite as a symbol of hope for a pleasant afterlife.

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Toxicity

Sweet marjoram is mildly toxic to humans, causing nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea if ingested. It is also moderately toxic to cats and dogs, leading to stomach irritation and potential dehydration in cats, and vomiting/diarrhea in dogs. Severe reactions like ulcers or reduced blood clotting are rare but possible. Keep sweet marjoram out of reach from pets.

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Quickly Identify Sweet marjoram

Aromatic, oval, slightly furry leaves with a mild, sweet flavor before blooming.

Tiny white or pale pink tubular flowers in dense, fragrant spikes.

Small, dry, single-seeded nutlet fruit in pairs among the foliage.

Square stem with burgundy streaks, fine hairs, and branching opposite pattern.

Prominent, ovate, green leaves with fuzzy texture and visible longitudinal veins.

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Care Guide for Sweet marjoram

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Sweet marjoram thrives in Mediterranean-like conditions with moderate humidity and dry periods. Drought-tolerant, it requires weekly watering, favoring deep watering with soil drying slightly between sessions. Preferring well-draining soil, sweet marjoram is ideal for container gardening to prevent root rot.

Fertilize: Fertilize sweet marjoram monthly during the growing season using balanced nutrition fertilizers. Use a high phosphorus mix pre-flowering and apply quarter-strength for potted plants, half-strength in-ground. Reduce frequency in cooler months and water soil before fertilizing to avoid shock.

Pruning: Sweet marjoram thrives with regular pruning, which encourages bushiness and improves health. Key methods involve pinching new growth and removing dead stems, ideally between early to late spring. Clean, sharp shears are essential to prevent damage and enhance leaf production for culinary use.

Propagation: Sweet marjoram propagates well through sowing in well-draining soil with adequate moisture. Lightly cover seeds for light exposure, and provide a warm environment to boost germination. Handle young plants gently during transplanting to prevent root disturbance.

Repotting: Repot sweet marjoram every 2-3 years in spring to support growth. Use a slightly larger pot, maintain consistent moisture, and avoid fertilizing for a month to help roots recover. This ensures healthy development and prevents root stress.

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Images of Sweet marjoram

Distribution of Sweet marjoram

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Sweet marjoram

Care Guide for Sweet marjoram

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