Zaatar
Origanum syriacum
Perennial. Native to the Middle East. Originally
mentioned in the bible under the name of “Hyssop.” The tablespice
“Zaatar” is actually a combination of Wild Syrian Marjoram, toasted sesame
seeds, pepper and local Sumac seed, which is ground to a paste. Salt
and olive oil (and optionally, crushed garlic) are added to the Zaatar
at table. Pita bread is dipped into it. Strongly aromatic, pungent
and delicious; antiseptic, diaphoretic and expectorant. Cultivation:
Extra care. Light-dependent germinator. Press firmly into surface
of soil. Sow in pots or flats, or direct-seed in the garden in early spring.
Average germ. time 12 days. Thin or transplant to 1 foot centers.
Flowers to 1 foot tall. Prefers full sun, dryish soils. Harvest in
late flower, dry on stem and strip leaves and bracts from stem for herbal
use.
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