Marjoram

Origanum majorana

Marjoram is a somewhat cold-sensitive perennial herb with sweet pine and citrus flavors. In some Middle Eastern countries, marjoram is synonymous with oregano, and the names sweet marjoram and knotted marjoram are used to distinguish it from other plants of the genus Origanum. 

The name marjoram (Old French majorane, Medieval Latin majorana) does not directly derive from the Latin word maior (major)

Marjoram is indigenous to Cyprus, Turkey, Mediterranean, Western Asia, Arabian Peninsula and the Levant. It was known to the Greeks and Romans as a symbol of happiness. It may have spread to the British Isles during the Middle Ages. Marjoram was not well known in the United States until returning soldiers from World War II returned from Italy with its knowledge.

Marjoram is used for seasoning soups, stews, dressings, sauces, and for herbal teas.