Herbs
Marjoram (Origanum Dictamnus)

Marjoram (Origanum Dictamnus)

Marjorams like it hot. They are from the Mediterranean hills and they can cope with searing heat, drought and even flash floods, providing the garden is well-drained. A great many cultivars have been produced from the various species and they are all generally good lookers, with the added advantage of aromatic foliage.
Price: Expect to pay about £1.50 per plant.

The Knowledge

  • Plant Type: Perennial
  • Height: 25.4cm (10in)
  • Spread: 20.32cm (8in)
  • Situation: Sunny, well-drained
  • Soil Type: Poor to medium rich
Marjoram is an essential ingredient of Herbs de Provence. It grows naturally in rocky and gravely places, often in short turf. The scented leaves make it a great plant to have around the garden. It is a versatile plant, appearing in pots, window boxes, borders, kitchen gardens or scree beds.

The foliage of some varieties is covered with attractive hairs. The flowers of marjorams are a magnet for insects that need to feed on nectar, so the plant is ideally suited to wildlife gardens.

Looking Good:
Check out the National Collection of Marjoram, at Chesters Walled Garden near Hexham, Northumberland, at the height of summer.

Best With:
Grow it with other low to medium height herbs. See Herb Garden and Hot and Dry Garden for more ideas on using marjoram in the garden.
 
 

Sky Channel 248, Virgin TV 267
Gardens On TV Now

Gardens  All UKTV