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Herbs - CulinaryShrubsHerbaceous Perennial

Origanum majorana
  • RHS AGM
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

sweet marjoram

An upright, tender perennial sub-shrub, 30-50cm tall, often grown as an annual or biennial; with aromatic, oval, softly hairy, edible grey-green leaves 1.5cm long and 1cm wide. Small, tubular, white flowers are held on wiry, somewhat feather-like stems in summer. Recommended in culinary circles for its flavour

Other common names
garden marjoram
knotted marjoram
see moreorgans
organy
pot marjoram

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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Neutral, Alkaline
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Grey Silver
Summer White Green Grey Silver
Autumn Green Grey Silver
Winter Green Grey Silver
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H2
Botanical details
Family
Lamiaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Origanum may be herbaceous perennials or deciduous or evergreen sub-shrubs, with aromatic foliage and spikes of small tubular flowers usually with conspicuous bracts

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Mediterranean

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in well-drained soil in a sheltered, sunny position. This variety is frost-tender so in colder areas, may need protection from very low temperatures and excess winter wet. Also suitable for growing in containers that can be overwintered in an unheated greenhouse. For more advice see oregano cultivation. See rhs.org.uk/trials-awards

Propagation

Propagate by seed, or by division or basal softwood cuttings in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning

Cut back old flower stems in early spring

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids and red spider mite

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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