Marjoram
Origanum majorana
Botanical family: Lamiaceae
Origanum majorana, an aromatic Lamiaceae of the eastern Mediterranean, more cold-sensitive than common oregano (Origanum vulgare) and with a more delicate taste. Sources: Tela Botanica, “Origanum majorana L.” (Baseflor); Plants For A Future, “Origanum majorana”.
Full sun, warm and sheltered
Well-drained, light, chalky; withstands drought
Low, a plant of dry ground
Frost-tender in our climates (often grown as an annual), its cousin oregano, by contrast, is hardy
Frost-tender in your zone
Role in permaculture
A close relative of oregano, milder and more fragrant, marjoram is an aromatic of full sun and dry soil. Its pinkish-white flowering is very nectar-bearing, foraged by bees and butterflies. Not very hardy, it's often grown as an annual or brought into a pot; in a cold climate, the perennial oregano often takes over in the garden.
Companions
No companion planting is documented for this plant: no recommended neighbour, no neighbour to avoid.
Seasons & availability
Often grown as an annual, being frost-tender: sown in spring, leaves picked all summer, then dried for winter.
Available: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December.
Guidance for the oceanic / temperate climate; it may vary with your region, altitude, exposure and growing method.
Sources
- RHS, « How to Grow Marjoram » (rhs.org.uk/herbs/marjoram/grow-your-own)
- La Ferme de Sainte Marthe, « Réussir la culture de la marjolaine » (fermedesaintemarthe.com/en/blogs/comment-reussir-la-culture-de/reussir-la-culture-de-la-marjolaine)
Nutritional & medicinal properties
For educational purposes. Not a substitute for medical advice. Effects depend on the form, the dose and personal context.
Precautions & contraindications
Culinary use and light infusion without concern; the essential oil is reserved for a supervised use.
Family behaviour: Lamiaceae
In general, Lamiaceae are aromatics (basil, mint, thyme, rosemary, sage, lavender, lemon balm, savory). Their essential oils are reputed to bother some insects, but in a trial cited by Parker et al. (2013), sage, thyme and mint planted near cabbages did not reduce their pests. Their flowers are much visited by pollinators.
Understanding families means learning one rule per family rather than every pairing one by one. Learn more →
Species & varieties
The best-known species and varieties in France.
Species
Key takeaways
- • Prefers full sun, warm and sheltered exposure.
- • Ideal soil: well-drained, light, chalky; withstands drought.