Family: Lamiaceae
Author: L.
Bibliography: Sp. pl. 2:590. 1753
Year: 1753
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Origanum
Vegetable: False
Observations: E. Medit. to Arabian Pen.
Description
The Biblical-hyssop, scientifically known as Origanum syriacum, is a highly esteemed plant with significant historical and cultural value. Belonging to the Lamiaceae family, this herb has been a staple in various regions ranging from the eastern Mediterranean to the Arabian Peninsula.
First described by the renowned botanist Carl Linnaeus in 1753, the Biblical-hyssop has a strong historical footprint. Linnaeus documented this remarkable plant in his pivotal work, “Species Plantarum,” grounding its scientific recognition.
Traditionally, Origanum syriacum has been celebrated for its aromatic qualities, which have made it a favored component in culinary and medicinal uses. Throughout history, its leaves have been utilized extensively in Middle Eastern cuisine. Known for its unique flavor, it often finds its way into spice blends such as za’atar, where it contributes a distinct, earthy taste.
Moreover, the Biblical-hyssop is more than just a culinary delight. It holds a significant place in herbal medicine, where it is valued for its potential health benefits. In folk medicine, the leaves are often used for their supposed anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making them an essential part of traditional health practices in the regions where it grows.
Growing in the wild, the plant is typically found in arid and semi-arid regions, adapting well to the Mediterranean climate. It usually thrives on sunlit slopes and scrublands, where it accentuates the landscape with its robust, bushy appearance and white to pale pink flowers.
The Biblical-hyssop not only represents a key element in natural and cultural heritage but also serves contemporary interests. Its relevance in modern botanical and nutritional studies underscores its enduring significance, bridging ancient traditions with modern scientific curiosity. Thus, Origanum syriacum continues to impart its rich legacy to both the natural world and human society.
Common Names
Eng: biblical-hyssop, lebanese oregano, syrian oregano
Swe: syrisk oregano
En: Biblical-hyssop, Lebanese oregano, Syrian oregano
Ar: بردقوش، مردقوش، زعتر، زعتران (زَعْتران), زعتر (زَعْتَر)، صعتر (صَعْتر)، زعتران (زَعْتَران)
Sv: Syrisk oregano
Synonyms
- Schizocalyx syriacus ((L.) Scheele)
- Majorana syriaca ((L.) Raf.)
Distribution
- Cyprus (native)
- Lebanon-Syria (native)
- Palestine (native)
- Saudi Arabia (native)
- Sinai (native)
- Turkey (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Sep 15, 2021 by ferchus motta (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 28, 2020 by merna (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 16, 2018 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 16, 2018 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 16, 2018 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Jul 3, 2022 by Asd Syr (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 1, 2022 by Viorica Colomeet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 1, 2022 by Viorica Colomeet (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Apr 16, 2018 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 16, 2018 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/6411178)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:453375-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Origanum syriacum L.)
