Article by David Marks The question “what is the difference between oregano and marjoram” hides a couple of different questions. First, what are the differences between the two as plants and second, what is the difference between the two for use in cooking? It also prompts the question why are oregano and marjoram so often grouped together as herbs? Those three questions are answered in detail below.
The difference between the two as plants is almost indistinguishable (taste aside) to the amateur gardener. One reason for this is that there are so many varieties of oregano, over 50 have been currently classified. Combine that with the fact that oregano and marjoram cross very easily when grown together (unlikely in the wild but very common in gardens) and you have an almost impossible identification problem.
In technical terms, the difference between marjoram and oregano is based on the shape of the calyx and not the leaves, how hairy they are or the growth habit. That in itself is enough to make most gardeners yawn – what is a calyx you may ask! For those who want to know, a calyx is that little swelling just below the petals of a flower, the petals appear in many cases to be growing from it. In some cases, as is often the case with oregano, the calyx is well developed and looks more interesting than the petals themselves.
So all the articles in books and on the internet which explain the difference between oregano and marjoram as the leaf shape, the amount of hairs on the stems, the growth habit etc are wrong, in actual fact it comes down to the shape and form of the calyx. So, unless you are planning on investigating the shapes of calyx the difference will be hidden to you!
In truth, you have to trust to the experts when buying marjoram or oregano as seeds or plants. Buy them only from reputable seed merchants you trust and in all likelihood you will get what you have asked for. Don’t buy from companies which don’t have a horticultural heritage and only buy from seed merchants you trust.
In practical terms, both oregano and marjoram are perennials but marjoram is a more tender plant compared to oregano. Marjoram may well die if exposed to frosts for any length of time so is often grown anew every year. Both prefer warm climates with free-draining soils although oregano prefers a drier soil compared to marjoram.
Oregano and marjoram are two herbs that are commonly confused as the same thing. At first glance it’s easy to see why – they look very similar have comparable growing conditions, and both provide a robust, earthy flavor. However, there are some key differences between these two kitchen staples that are worth understanding if you want to use them properly in your cooking. In this article, we’ll explore the nuances between oregano and marjoram so you can deploy these herbs confidently in your recipes.
How Are Oregano and Marjoram Alike?
Let’s first look at the characteristics that oregano and marjoram share
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They belong to the same genus Origanum and are part of the mint family Lamiaceae, This gives them a close botanical relationship
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Both oregano and marjoram are perennial herbs that can be grown successfully indoors or outdoors.
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They have similar growing requirements, thriving in well-draining soil and full sun.
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The herbs feature small green leaves, albeit marjoram’s are slightly hairier and lighter in color.
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If allowed to flower, they both produce pink/purple blooms.
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Oregano and marjoram carry notes of earthiness and woodiness in their flavor profile.
So in many respects, marjoram and oregano are nearly indistinguishable relatives. But looks can be deceiving…keep reading to uncover the key differences.
Appearance: Leaves, Stems and Flowers
While their similarities are plentiful, a few distinguishing physical characteristics set marjoram and oregano apart:
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Marjoram leaves are oval-shaped, smaller and more delicate. They are grayish green and slightly hairy.
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Oregano leaves tend to be oval, but wider and more rounded. They are a vibrant green and not as furry as marjoram.
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Marjoram stems are tender, not woody, and stand upright when the plant is mature.
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Oregano stems are woodier and sturdier than marjoram. The plants grow in a bushy mound.
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Marjoram flowers are small and white, blooming in subtle clusters at stem tips.
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Oregano flowers can vary in color from white to pink to purple. The flowers are larger and bolder.
Taste: Sweet vs. Earthy
When it comes to flavor, marjoram and oregano diverge into clearly distinct tasting profiles:
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Marjoram is sweet, subtle, and mildly citrusy. It has hints of pine and cloves. Overall, it is more delicate and reserved in flavor.
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Oregano packs a bold, earthy punch. It can be quite peppery, with undertones of mint and lemon. The flavor is robust and pronounced.
Dried oregano is particularly potent, taking on an almost medicinal taste. For marjoram, the dried form isn’t quite as popular since the subtle flavors dissipate more rapidly.
Usage: Dishes They Compliment
Due to their varying strengths of flavor, marjoram and oregano each shine in different dishes:
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Marjoram complements more delicate foods like seafood, poultry, vegetables, bread and cheese. It is commonly used in salad dressings and pairs well with fruits.
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Oregano stands up to bold ingredients like red meat, tomato sauce, lamb, beans, olive oil and eggs. It is famously used in pizza, pasta and Mediterranean cuisine.
Marjoram’s gently sweet side also lends itself nicely to desserts. It can provide a lovely flavor in custards, fruit compotes, scones and more. Oregano, on the other hand, is used almost exclusively in savory applications.
Nutrition: Oregano Wins
When evaluating the nutritional makeup of marjoram vs. oregano, oregano emerges as the healthier choice:
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It contains more than double the antioxidants as marjoram.
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Oregano has higher levels of vitamins A and K.
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It provides more fiber and a greater array of minerals.
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Two unique flavonoids in oregano, galangin and queretin, amp up its antioxidant power even further.
So while both herbs certainly provide nutritional value, oregano packs a more concentrated phytonutrient punch.
Origins: Mediterranean Cousins
The origins of oregano and marjoram can help explain their subtle differences:
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Oregano hails from the sunny, rugged climes of Greece and Italy. It became entrenched in Mediterranean cooking.
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Marjoram also originated in the Mediterranean. As it spread through Europe, it gained popularity in French and English cuisine.
These geographical and cultural origins influenced how each herb was ultimately used in regional dishes throughout Europe and the Mediterranean.
Can They Be Substituted?
In a pinch, oregano and marjoram can stand in for each other. However, a couple tips make for a smoother substitution:
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Since oregano is more pungent, use less of it. Start with 1/3 of the marjoram measurement and adjust to taste.
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Oregano stems are tough and woody. Remove them instead of adding the whole sprig like you would with marjoram.
And always remember that the flavor will turn out differently than if you used the intended herb. That bit of improvisation is part of the fun of cooking!
Parting Thoughts
Oregano and marjoram may seem interchangeable at first, but once you recognize their unique differences you can truly unlock their individual strengths. Hopefully this guide gave you a helpful crash course on appreciating the nuances between these two kitchen treasures. Now that you know how to distinguish marjoram vs. oregano, you can bring out the best in each one.
NAMING DIFFERENCES BETWEEN MARJORAM AND OREGANO
The Latin name for marjoram is Origanum majorana (often called sweet marjoram), the Latin name for oregano is Origanum vulgare (often called wild marjoram). Pot marjoram is also often grown in the UK and the Latin name for that Origanum onites.
Because of the similarities between the two herbs some seed merchants do not distinguish, or blur the boundaries, between the two and those are companies to avoid. The naming conventions used over the last two hundred years have changed and this is perhaps the key reason why oregano and marjoram are so often confused.
Difference between OREGANO and MARJORAM and how to grow this delicious herb
FAQ
Can I use marjoram instead of oregano?
Marjoram. Oregano and marjoram are very closely related and, thus, make perfect replacements for one another– both fresh and dried. Marjoram is slightly sweeter and a bit milder than oregano, so use equal amounts to swap and then add in a pinch more to get as close to oregano’s pungent flavor as possible.
Do marjoram and oregano taste the same?
Marjoram is very similar in taste to oregano but it’s a bit milder. It’s also very aromatic and almost floral. It’s great with poultry but you can probably use it anywhere you would use oregano.
Are marjoram and oregano in the same family?
Oregano and marjoram are in the Lamiaceae family (aka mint family) alongside mint, basil, rosemary, sage, thyme, lavender, shiso and other common herbs.
How do you identify marjoram?
Wild marjoram is actually the same aromatic herb as oregano which is used in Mediterranean cooking. Its small, pink flower clusters can be seen on chalk and limestone grasslands in summer.