Sweeter, milder and more delicate than its cousin oregano — a tender perennial often grown as an annual in cooler gardens. Lovely in dressings and with roast vegetables.
At a glance
- Plant type: Edible plant
- Mature size: 40 cm tall
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Sweet Marjoram
Botanically, Origanum majorana is a moderate-growing edible plant in the Lamiaceae family. It reaches around 40 cm tall at maturity, with aromatic foliage.
Where to grow Sweet Marjoram
Sweet Marjoram suits Mediterranean, warm-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Sweet Marjoram does best in free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Sweet Marjoram performs well with relatively little water once established. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Sweet Marjoram in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Sweet Marjoram in the garden
Sweet Marjoram earns its place for edible harvests, pots and courtyard containers, feeding bees and pollinators and its fragrance. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Combine Sweet Marjoram with plants that share its preference for happy on low water and Mediterranean climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Sweet Marjoram
Plant Sale lists Sweet Marjoram as potted plants and seed. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Sweet Marjoram seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.
