The oregano family ranges from Dost to Greek oregano to the marjoram we often use. All oregano varieties have in common their unmistakable aroma, which is an integral part of Mediterranean cuisine.
What types of oregano are there?
The most common types of oregano are dost (Oregano vulgare), real marjoram (Origanum majorana), Crete marjoram (Origanum dictamus), Greek oregano (Origanum heracleoticum), flower oregano (Origanum laevigatum aromaticum), peppery oregano (Origanum Samothrace), Zaatar (Origanum syriacum) and Hot Oregano (Origanum hybride “hot & spicy”).
Oregano types: Mediterranean herbs for tomato dishes and meat
Oregano, with its decorative foliage and attractive flowers, is a decoration for every herb garden. Bees and insects swarm around the delicately scented butterfly flowers, which can be eaten. Here is an overview of the common types available in our stores:
- Dost (Oregano vulgare): Robust, native oregano that can be planted outdoors.
- True marjoram (Origanum majorana): Annual species of oregano native to our latitudes. Marjoram is used in German cuisine as a seasoning for fried potatoes, liver sausage, mushroom dishes and stews.
- Crete marjoram (Origanum dictamus): It differs from other species by its woolly leaves, which give the herb a white shimmer. Nevertheless, in his homeland in the Diktys Mountains on Crete he reaches altitudes over 1. It thrives at 600 meters and is not forest hardy. Cultivate this very aromatic tasting oregano in a bucket and overwinter the plant indoors.
- Greek Oregano (Origanum heracleoticum): Plant this hardy herb in a sunny spot in the herb garden and give it good winter protection. The flowers and leaves of this oregano taste exceptionally intense and give pizza and minced meat dishes an interesting note.
- Flower Oregano (Origanum laevigatum aromaticum): Can be planted in the herb garden. Not entirely frost hardy, so ensure adequate protection from the cold. The flower oregano is characterized by its floral bloom. It is stronger and more aromatic than other types of oregano and is an excellent pasture for bees. As with all types of oregano, the flowers are edible.
- Peppery oregano (Origanum samothrace): A very popular spice in star cuisine because of its intense aroma. Keep relatively dry and overwinter indoors.
- Zaatar (Origanum syriacum): Typical herb for many oriental dishes. Since this oregano is not frost-resistant, it must be cultivated in a bucket and overwintered indoors.
- Hot oregano (Origanum hybride “hot & spicy): Hot, spicy variety that goes perfectly with fiery dishes such as chilli con carne. Not completely hardy, so ensure adequate winter protection.
Tips & Tricks
In addition to these types, there are many other oregano varieties commercially available, all of which differ slightly in their taste. Experiment with the different types and discover the variety of flavors of this aromatic herb.
