Dittany Of Crete, Hop Marjoram

Origanum dictamnus

Physical Characteristics

Origanum dictamnus is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in) by 0.4 m (1ft 4in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from June to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

S. Europe - Crete.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Condiment Tea The leaves are used for flavouring salads and vermouth[183, 238]. A pleasant aromatic flavour, especially when mixed with parsley, thyme, garlic, salt and pepper[183]. The flowering tops are dried and brewed into a herb tea[183, 238].

Medicinal Uses

Antirheumatic Oxytoxic Stomachic Vulnerary The flowering plant has been used as an antirheumatic, oxytocic, stomachic and vulnerary[148], though these uses appear to be obsolete in modern herbalism[238]..

Known Hazards

None known