Winter savory (Satureja montana)

Winter savory

Features and Characteristics

Satureja montana, called winter savory, is a low-growing, woody-stemmed, somewhat-shrubby, spreading perennial which is frequently grown in herb gardens for its stiff, linear to lance-shaped, pungent, glossy, dark green leaves (to 1″ long) which can be used fresh or dried as a seasoning in food. Tiny white-to-lilac flowers (typical mint family) appear in terminal spikes in mid to late summer. Plants typically grow 6-15″ tall.

Genus name comes from the Latin name for this herb which was well known to the ancients.

Specific epithet means pertaining to mountains.

Care and Maintenance

Best grown in dry to medium moisture, rocky to sandy, well-drained soil in full sun. Tolerant of some light shade. Trim back plants in early spring. Hardy in Zones 5-8.

Winter savory (Satureja montana) Requirements

Hardiness zone	5 - 8
Sun light	Full sun
Water	Dry to medium
Maintenance	Medium

Common Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. Deer tend to avoid this plant.

Uses

Best in herb garden. Has ornamental value that can be useful in rock gardens or border fronts. Surprisingly good edging plant which may be clipped for a formal effect.

Winter savory (Satureja montana) Details

Common name	Winter savory
Botanical name	Satureja montana
Plant type	Herbaceous perennial
Family	Lamiaceae
Hardiness zone	5 - 8
Water	Dry to medium
Maintenance	Medium
Flower color	White to lilac
Flowering period	June - August
Height	0.50 to 1 ft.
Width	1 - 1.50 feet