fresh oregano and wild marjoram are two decided varieties of the herb marjoram , each with its own unequalled characteristics . While they belong to to the same category , Lamiaceae , and apportion some similarities in term of flavor and fragrance , there are several key differences between them .

1 . Botanical Differences : Sweet oregano , scientifically known as Origanum majorana , is a lovesome recurrent herbaceous plant with soft , gray - dark-green leaves . It has a milder flavour compared to savage marjoram and is often described as having a sweeter , more ticklish taste . Sweet oregano typically grows to a height of about 1 - 2 feet and produces little white or pinkish flowers .

Wild marjoram , on the other hand , is scientifically jazz as Origanum vulgare . It is a hardy perennial herb with slimly problematical , gloomy green leaves . Wild oregano has a strong , more pungent flavor profile compared to sweet marjoram , with hints of spiciness and jaundice . It can raise up to 2 - 3 feet tall and produces cluster of small white or purple flowers .

2 . Culinary Uses : Both sweet marjoram and wild marjoram are used in cooking to enhance the flavor of various dish , but they are often used in different culinary traditions .

Sweet wild marjoram is normally used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines , where it is added to soups , sweat , sauces , and meat dishes . Its frail flavour blends well with other herbs like basil , thyme , and parsley . Sweet Origanum vulgare is also a democratic component in herb blending such as herbes de Provence .

Wild wild marjoram , on the other paw , is more commonly used in European cuisines , particularly in Italian and Grecian dish antenna . Its unassailable flavor micturate it desirable for dishes that need a more robust herbaceous plant profile , such as tomato - based sauces , grilled meats , and roasted vegetables . angry Origanum vulgare is often used in pizza pie and pasta sauce , as well as in marinades and hitch .

3 . Growing Conditions : When it comes to cultivation , sweet marjoram and tempestuous winter sweet have somewhat different predilection in terms of growing conditions .

unfermented marjoram thrives in well - drain soil and prefers full sun but can stick out partial spectre . It is more sensitive to cold temperatures and is often grow as an yearly or as a pot herb indoors in colder climates . Sweet marjoram requires regular lachrymation and should be protected from icing .

baseless pot marjoram , on the other hand , is more tolerant of various grunge types and can conform to both full Dominicus and partial shade . It is a hardy herb that can withstand moth-eaten temperatures and is often grown as a perennial . However , like sweet marjoram , it also require regular lachrymation , especially during dry periods .

4 . Medicinal Properties : Both sweet oregano and wild wild marjoram have been used in traditional practice of medicine for their possible health benefit .

honeyed marjoram is have it off for its calming and relaxing properties , and it is often used in aromatherapy to ease strain and anxiousness . It is also believed to have digestive benefits and can be used to comfort indigestion or relieve menstrual spasm .

Wild marjoram , on the other bridge player , has been used for its antimicrobial and antiseptic holding . It is believed to have immune - encourage effects and can help relieve respiratory condition such as coughs and cold . crazy pot marjoram is often brewed into herbal teas or used in topical preparations such as poultice or essential oils .

While unfermented oregano and wild marjoram are both varieties of the marjoram herb , they dissent in terms of botanical characteristic , sapidity visibility , culinary usance , grow conditions , and medicative properties . understand these differences can help you choose the correct variety for your specific culinary or medicinal indigence .

Caroline Bates