MARJORAM & OREGANO

Closely related but very different in flavour and habit, marjoram and oregano are reliable, low-effort herbs that earn their keep in both the kitchen and the garden

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Closely related but very different in character, marjoram and oregano earn their places in the kitchen garden in distinct ways.

Both belong to the Origanum family, but marjoram is softer, sweeter and more delicate, while oregano is robust, pungent and built for bold flavours. Grown well, each will give you reliable harvests and long-term value, whether in containers, raised beds or herb borders, and are excellent food sources for pollinators.

GETTING STARTED

Both plants are native to the Mediterranean and thrive in similar conditions - plenty of sun and sharply draining soil. Poor drainage is the most common cause of failure, particularly in winter. If your soil is heavy, grow plants in containers or raised beds with added grit.

Oregano is fully hardy and perennial, forming spreading clumps that return year after year. Marjoram is usually grown as a tender perennial or annual in the UK. It dislikes cold, wet winters and is often treated as a summer crop unless protected.

Plant both after the risk of frost has passed, spacing generously to allow airflow. Once established, they are low-maintenance plants that actively prefer being left slightly on the dry side.

CHOOSING VARIETIES

Marjoram

Origanum majorana - Sweet marjoram has soft, grey-green leaves and a mild, floral flavour. Best grown fresh, as its aroma fades quickly when dried.

Oregano

Origanum vulgare - Common oregano with strong flavour, excellent for drying.