How do they differ?

Important distinguishing features between thyme and marjoram

• Marjoram - slightly fragrant, almost sweet aroma
• Thyme - very spicy, bitter scent
• Marjoram - leaves larger and more rounded
• Thyme - very narrow, pointed leaves
• Marjoram - white and reddish flowers
• Thyme - purple flowers

You can tell very well whether you have thyme or marjoram in front of you, especially by looking at the leaves. Marjoram leaves are larger than thyme leaves. They need to be chopped up before consuming. The leaves of thyme, on the other hand, are very small and narrow. They're easily rubbed by the style and don't need to be crushed.

Thyme is hardy and perennial

Marjoram is almost always only planted as an annual herb in German regions. The herb is not hardy.

Like oregano, thyme also tolerates sub-zero temperatures. The plant is quite robust and can be grown in the garden for several years.

Thyme and marjoram and their uses in the kitchen

Marjoram only really comes into its own in combination with other spices such as thyme or oregano.

Thyme, on the other hand, can also be used very well as the only herb in a dish. It belongs just like that wild marjoram, oregano, in the herb mixture "Herbes de Provence" and gives all Mediterranean dishes an unmistakable aroma.

Marjoram is also known as "sausage cabbage" in this country. It is very popular for the production of sausages and sausage products. On the other hand, marjoram would be completely out of place on a pizza.

Grow in the garden

It's worth having both herbs in the garden too sow and fresh too to harvest. However, you should note that the two herbs are not directly next to each other.

Nor should thyme or marjoram be planted in a place where both spices have already stood once in the past three years.

Tips & Tricks

Unlike marjoram, thyme is very popular as a bath additive for colds. Either dried leaves or thyme oil are added to the bath water for this.