Za'atar 'Cleopatra'

Zaatar 'Cleopatra' is a compact aromatic herb with fragrant foliage, prized for seasoning breads, vegetables, meats, marinades, and zaatar-style spice blends.

Format

Hardiness Zone 7

Difficulty level Moderate

Family Lamiaceae

‘Cleopatra’ zaatar is a highly decorative aromatic plant, prized for its fragrant foliage and compact habit, ideal for pots, rockeries, edible borders, and herb gardens. Its fragrance recalls a blend of thyme, oregano, and marjoram, with a warm, herbaceous, and slightly spicy flavor. It is perfect for flavoring flatbreads, marinades, grilled vegetables, meats, fish, sauces, dips, infused oils, and recipes inspired by Mediterranean or Middle Eastern cuisine.

Easy to grow, ‘Cleopatra’ zaatar prefers a full-sun, warm, and well-ventilated location in light, poor to moderately fertile, and very well-drained soil. It tolerates dry conditions well once established but does not tolerate excessive water and heavy soils. In containers, it is important to choose a draining potting mix and allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Regular harvesting of young shoots helps maintain a dense, branched, and productive plant throughout the season.

Both aromatic, ornamental, and beneficial for pollinators, ‘Cleopatra’ zaatar is an excellent plant for creating a gourmet garden with a Mediterranean style. Its leaves can be used fresh or dried, with a flavor often more concentrated after drying. It is an ideal herb for gardeners looking for a robust, fragrant, heat-resistant plant perfect for adding character to homemade recipes.