Botanical profile

Zaatar

Latin name
Origanum syriacum
Common name
Zaatar
Type
Tender perennial herb
Family
Lamiaceae

Za'atar is an aromatic plant highly valued for its fragrant foliage, with a warm, herbaceous, and slightly spicy taste, reminiscent of a blend of thyme, oregano, and marjoram. Widely used in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, it is perfect for flavoring flatbreads, marinades, grilled vegetables, meats, fish, sauces, dips, flavored oils, and stews. Its compact habit and aromatic foliage make it an excellent plant for herb gardens, rockeries, edible borders, and sunny containers near the kitchen.

Easy to grow, za'atar 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. Whether in pots or in the ground, regular harvesting of young shoots helps maintain a dense, branched, and productive plant. Its leaves can be used fresh or dried, with a flavor often more concentrated after drying.

Both aromatic, decorative, and useful for pollinators, za'atar is ideal for creating a gourmet garden with a Mediterranean style. Its discreet flowering attracts bees and other beneficial insects, while adding a natural touch to sunny arrangements. It is a perfect herb for gardeners looking for a robust, flavorful, drought-resistant plant full of culinary character.

Care guide

Care level
Moderate

Choosing this plant

Main benefit
Intense aromatic foliage used in zaatar mix
Vegetable garden, herbs, container, rockery, Mediterranean garden, Middle Eastern cuisine
Container growing
Excellent in a pot in a very well-drained container
Seasonal care
Trim lightly after flowering to maintain a compact shape; harvest leaves before flowering; protect from waterlogged soil and intense cold
Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Non-hardy – grown as an annual in Quebec (perennial in zones 9-10+)
Exposure
Full sun
Watering
Low to moderate
Humidity
Low to moderate humidity; prefers dry, well-drained soils
Fertilization
Light compost in the spring; avoid over-fertilizing
Soil type
Light soil, poor to medium, dry and very well-drained
Soil pH
Neutral to slightly alkaline
Minimum temperature
-10°C
Propagation method
Sowing, cuttings, or division
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Summer
Flower color
White to pale pink
Fruiting
Late-season seeds
Foliage color
Grayish green
Foliage type
Semi-persistent in mild climates
Shape
Compact, semi-woody, bushy habit
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
30 to 60 cm (12 to 24 inches)
Width
30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 inches)
Growth rate
Average growth
Vegetable garden and yield

Companion planting, spacing and harvest

Companion plants
Thyme, rosemary, sage, lavender
Plants to avoid
Avoid with water-hungry plants
Spacing
30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 inches)
Harvest period
June to September
Not recommended for pets
Not recommended for pets

Pets

Butterflies
Plants that attract butterflies

Butterflies

Deer
Less attractive or generally tolerated by deer

Deer

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.