Search Results for '
Origanum'
PAL Questions: 1 - Garden Tools:
Display all answers | Hide all answers
Keywords: Origanum, Herbs
PAL Question:
I have marjoram and/or oregano growing all over, I like it and use it
as filler, left over from herbs I bought several years ago. But, to
cut them and use for seasoning, I don't know which is which and they
don't seem to be so fragrant. Should I just start over and buy new
plants to know what I have? How can I tell the difference between the two plants?
View Answer:
Everytime I get this question (this almost qualifies for a frequently asked
question) I have to look it up again because even the authorities get mixed
up.
Oregano and marjoram are the same genus, Origanum, but different species/hybrids. The leaves of Origanums are oval to heart-shaped, dark green. Marjoram tends to be more gray green in color than oregano, and the leaves are generally smaller. Oregano typically has pink flowers, while marjoram usually has white. Oregano has a pungent flavor, marjoram is sweeter and milder.
The short answer to your question is YES, you should start over with new
plants if you want good flavored herbs. You could bring in (or mail) a sample to the Hyde Herbarium here at the Center, 3501 NE 41st St. Seattle: http://depts.washington.edu/hydeherb/
Season
All Season
Date 2008-01-17
Link to this record only (permalink)
Didn't find an answer to your question? Ask us directly!
We are continually adding new questions, so be sure to keep coming back.
April 19 2012 16:02:30
