MARJORAM (Origanum marjorana) also known as Sweet Marjoram, Knotted Marjoram or Majorana hortensis symbolized happiness for the ancient Greeks and Romans and it is apt for this sublime savory herb will be happily added to any dish. The flavor and aroma is a blend of sweet pine and citrus, a warm addition. Similar to oregano in form and flavor, but Marjoram is sweeter and warmer. Wonderful in all manner of culinary delights, from eggs to roasts to salads. My grandmother roasted pork, lamb and veal in rosemary and marjoram before grinding to make her fabulous ravioli. The French use in combination with Herbes de Provence to flavor goose and chestnuts; Germans in sausage and to flavor beer (before hops); Italians and Greeks in sauces and meat dishes; and the English steep in aromatic teas. Marjoram grows 18" to 24" with dense, tiny-leaved, foliage and pink/lavender flowering tops. Perennial, hardy to zone 5 with protection. 25 Seeds.

HISTORICAL and MEDICINAL:Greeks and Romans used Marjoram as wreaths for marrying couples and on the graves of favored departed. The flowering tops and leaves are steam distilled to produce an essential oil with components of borneol, camphor, origanol and pinene. Just a few drops on a Q-tip directed to an aching tooth often relieves the pain. Useful externally for rheumatism and painful swelling. One of the highest of the kitchen herbs in antioxidants (more so fresh). It is used in a wide array of cosmetics including creams, lotions, soap and shaving gels. Colonists used springs to finish furniture and as a strewing herb.

GROWING TIPS: Somewhat cold sensitive, so give cover in colder climes through the winter. Start indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost, sowing just beneath the surface of soil. Germination in about 10 days. Pot up and harden off before transplanting to a well-drained, sunny position with some protection from the harsher elements. Give it some room to spread laterally. If it becomes woody, cut it back and it will re-grow.http://www.cherrygal.com/cherrygalheirloomseeds25for25special-p-10946.html