DESCRIPTION

Like its close cousin oregano, marjoram is an ancient herb native to the
Mediterranean. A member of the mint family, it is a perennial that bears tiny
white flowers in the summer. The deep green leaves are aromatic and somewhat
reminiscent of thyme. Sweet marjoram is the most common variety, but knotted
marjoram flourishes in many herb gardens; the type called pot marjoram has a
less agreeable taste and is better passed over for either of the other two. The
flavor of marjoram is somewhat more delicate than that of oregano, but as is true
of oregano, its flavor intensifies when dried. Some cooks prefer the more
concentrated taste of dried marjoram to fresh.