Marjoram

Origanum majorana, syn. Majorana hortensis is a cold sensitive tender perennial undershrub herb. The plant spreads prolifically under optimum conditions. Marjoram is cultivated for its aromatic leaves, either green or dry, for culinary purposes; the tops are cut as the plants begin to flower and are dried slowly in the shade. The flowering leaves and tops of marjoram are steam distilled to produce an essential oil that is yellowish, darkening to brown as it ages.