Common Name

Oregano

Scientific Name

Origanum species

Habit

Also known as marjarom, oregano is a woody, hardy periennial. It grows to 2 to 3 feet high and wide, with oval leaves up to an inch or so long. It bears dense clusters of pink to white flowers with purple bracts over much of the summer. It is common in Europe and central Asia, and is naturalized in North America. Pungency varies widely according to climate and species.

Hardiness

Does best above 45 degrees, but generally very easy to grow. Oregano is best treated as an annual in cold climates where it will not overwinter well.

Soil & Site

Well-drained to dry, full sun. South slope is ideal. When plants are 4 to 5 inches high, you can begin harvesting the leaves. The flavor gets better after the flower buds form, just before flowering.

History & Lore

The name Origanum is derived from two Greek words, oros (mountain) and ganos (joy), in allusion to the gay appearance these plants give to the hillsides on which they grow. The Greeks used marjarom extensively, both internally and externally for various ailments, includingr "narcotic poisons, convulsions and dropsy." If marjoram grew on a grave, it meant happiness for the deceased. Among both the Greeks and Romans, young couples were crowned with Marjoram.

Suggested Uses

Culinary      

Many Mediterranean dishes, especially Italian sauces, are enhanced with oregano. Different varieties yield different flavors.

Health

Oregano contains the powerful antiseptic Thymol which is thought to ease the pain of a toothache.

It has been used in an infusion as a stimulant and carminative, and also to induce sweating, reduce gas, and treat menstrual problems.

Fun Facts

Before the introduction of fancier foreign perfumes, Sweet Marjarom was prized for its fragrance. According to Parkinson, 'swete bags,' 'swete powders' and 'swete washing water' made from this plant were widely used. In the early days of furniture making, fine wood was scoured with the aromatic juices of marjarom. It was also one of the pungent herbs strewn on the floor of chambers to freshen the air.

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