Marjoram is a somewhat cold-sensitive perennial herb or undershrub with sweet pine and citrus flavors. It was known to the Greeks and Romans as a symbol of happiness. Considered a tender perennial (USDA Zones 7-9), 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. It is often used in herb combinations such as herbes de Provence and za’atar. The flowering leaves and tops of marjoram are steam-distilled to produce an essential oil that is yellowish in color (darkening to brown as it ages)
