Marjoram and oregano belong to the same genus. But what is the difference between marjoram and oregano and how can you tell them apart?
Marjoram (Origanum majorana) and oregano (Origanum vulgare) are both found in almost every herb garden. But the two plants have more in common than just their popularity in the garden - in fact, oregano and marjoram belong to the same plant genus called Dost (Origanum) and are therefore closely related. No wonder, then, that it is not so easy to tell marjoram and oregano apart. However, if you take a closer look, you will quickly find that there are some differences between marjoram and oregano. Whether it's taste, use or care in the garden: we list some characteristics that you can use to distinguish marjoram and oregano.
Marjoram and oregano: differences in taste
Marjoram and oregano are both typical Mediterranean herbs and are therefore often confused. But that's not because the plants taste similar - in fact, you can simply taste the difference between oregano and marjoram: in general, oregano has a much more intense aroma. It has a somewhat tart taste, while the marjoram appears almost sweet. Because of its distinctive flavor, oregano is often used as the sole spice in a dish, unlike marjoram. Marjoram, on the other hand, can be excellently combined with other herbs and spices thanks to its rather mild taste.
Use of oregano and marjoram in comparison
Both marjoram and oregano have a firm place in Mediterranean cuisine and are often used for seasoning. However, the two herbs are rarely found in the same dish - the biggest difference between marjoram and oregano lies in the way they are used. Oregano is mainly used as a spice for pizza, which has also given it the name pizza herb. Its rather tart aroma can also be wonderfully combined with tomatoes in all variations. Compared to oregano, marjoram clearly likes itheartier: stews, potato and meat dishes benefit particularly from the spicy plant. Sausages are also often refined with the herb. For this reason marjoram is also known as "sausage herb".
Differences between marjoram and oregano in appearance
Even if laypeople in particular sometimes have difficulty recognizing the difference between marjoram and oregano, with a little practice the plants can also be distinguished from one another in the bed: the leaves of marjoram are usually smooth and oval. The leaves of oregano, on the other hand, are much more pointed and have fine, soft hair. You can distinguish oregano and marjoram particularly well by touching the leaves with your fingers - the fine, soft hairiness of oregano flatters the skin in a completely different way than the smooth surface of marjoram.
Oregano and marjoram: comparison of hardiness and care
If you compare marjoram and oregano, you will not only notice the external differences, the two plants also have different requirements when it comes to care. Unfortunately, marjoram is not hardy in our latitudes because it is very sensitive to frost. For this reason, the plant in the garden is usually grown as an annual. Oregano, on the other hand, can withstand temperatures as low as -15 °C and take root in the garden for several years. However, both herbs have one thing in common: In order for them to develop their full potential, they need the right substrate. Ideally, the herbs should be planted in high-quality herbal soil such as our Plantura organic herb and seed soil. This not only contains the right nutrient composition, but also enables optimal root growth thanks to its loose structure. In the right substrate, both herbs are considered easy to care for and require little attention. Marjoram and oregano should only be watered regularly if there is a long drought.
Ultimately, the two cans of marjoram and oregano are clearly different. That is why they are also used for different preferences in the kitchen. They have recently earned a place in the garden thanks to their magnificent and insect-friendly flowers. Check out this article for more bee-friendly herbs.