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Syrian Oregano (Za'atar)
الزعتر البري (الزعتر الشامي) · Origanum syriacum
The well-known za'atar herb of the Levant. Its dried leaves are mixed with sesame and sumac to make the za'atar blend.
Quick facts
| Arabic name | الزعتر البري (الزعتر الشامي) |
|---|---|
| English name | Syrian Oregano (Za'atar) |
| Scientific name | Origanum syriacum |
| Family | Mint family (Lamiaceae) |
| Plant type | Small perennial aromatic shrub |
| Height | 40 to 90 cm |
| Water use | Low |
Planting and harvest calendar
October to November, and February to March
April to July
Times are general for the Saudi climate and may shift a few weeks by region: cooler in the highlands and the north, warmer on the coasts and in the south.
Description
A soft grey-green plant with small oval leaves and small white flower clusters.
Where it grows
Grown in gardens and pots in the mild north, such as Tabuk, Al-Jouf, the Northern Borders and Hail.
Soil
Needs light, well-drained or gravel soil.
Water and irrigation
Needs little water.
Climate and light
Loves sun and dry weather.
Propagation
From seeds or cuttings.
Benefits and uses
- Leaves are the base of the za'atar blend
- Handles drought
- Attracts bees
Drawbacks
- Rots with too much water
Sources and references
The information was collected and checked from these scientific sources:
- Plants of the World Online (POWO) - Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Origanum syriacum
- Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF): Origanum syriacum
- Wikipedia: Origanum syriacum
- FAO Crop Calendar - Food and Agriculture Organization
- Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA)
- Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) - Plant finder
- Photo source: Wikimedia Commons (free license)