mildly different
Oregano and marjoram are often confused due to their botanical similarity, shared genus (Origanum), and similar appearance, aroma, and taste. They both have small, oval-shaped leaves and belong to the mint family. Their aromatic profiles, with warm and slightly sweet notes, make them difficult to differentiate by smell alone. Oregano has a stronger and more robust taste, while marjoram has a milder and sweeter flavor. Oregano is commonly used in Italian and Greek dishes, while marjoram is favored for delicate recipes.
name calling
In Mediterranean countries such as Italy and Greece, the term "oregano" is often used to refer to both oregano (Origanum vulgare) and marjoram (Origanum majorana). Additionally oregano is sometimes called "wild marjoram".
Ancient Greeks thought marjoram was created by Greek goddess of love and beauty, Aphrodite. It was believed to be her favorite flower and that she'd use it to charm admirers. According to Greek mythology, the alluring scent of marjoram was said to enhance Aphrodite's power of attraction, captivating those who encountered it. It was believed that the goddess herself would infuse marjoram into love potions and use it as an enchanting herb to create a sense of desire and romance.