Origanum vulgare 'Wild Marjoram'

[Ex. Durham, England]

Lamiaceae: Downy, tufted perennial to 50cm, the plant (mainly the leaves) has a pleasantly aromatic small, familiar to lovers of culinary herbs. Found growing in dry grassland mainly on calcareous soils. The flowers are pinkish purple, appearing in dense, terminal clusters from July-September, seeds are tiny. Widespread and locally common in the south of the country, but scarce elsewhere,

USES:

The leaves are use raw or cooked as a potherb, and is an important flavouring herb in Mediterranean cookery, and is often used dried rather than fresh.

Oregano has been used as a culinary and medicinal herb for thousands of years. It has a beneficial effect upon the digestive and respiratory systems and is also used to promote menstruation. It should not be used medicinally by pregnant women though it is perfectly safe in small amounts for culinary purposes. The leaves and flowering stems are strongly antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, cholagogue, diaphoretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, stimulant, stomachic and mildly tonic. The plant is taken internally in the treatment of colds, influenza, mild feverish illnesses, indigestion, stomach upsets and painful menstruation. It is strongly sedative and should not be taken in large doses, though mild teas have a soothing effect and aid restful sleep. It should not be prescribed for pregnant women.

GROWING INFORMATION:

Rapidly germinating, keep seed in constant moisture (not wet) with temperatures of about +20°C [68°F]. Seeds must be covered thinly. Do not cover very small seeds, but tightly press into the earth. Keep in cooler conditions after germination occurs. A well-drained site in full sun.

HARVESTED: 

APPROX. 1000+ SEEDS