Thyme-leaved Savory

There are about 70 species of aromatic annuals, perennials, and dwarf, evergreen shrubs in this genus, which occurs in dry rocky regions of the Mediterranean, the Caucasus, SW China, and USA. Identification of micromerias is often difficult; some species are now classified in the genus Acinos (See, Basil Thyme), and others have been transferred to Satureja (See, Summer Savory). A few species are grown in herb gardens, and one or two are seen occasionally in rock gardens. Micromeria brownei (St. John's Mint) has a strong minty aroma, with a high proportion of pulegone (as in Mentha pulegium, See, Pennyroyal) in its essential oil. It is locally used for flavoring and herb teas. There are three varieties: var. brownei, found only in Jamaica; var. ludens from Cuba; and var. pilosiuscula, which occurs from Mexico to Georgia. Micromeria fruiticosa is a dwarf shrub with white flowers and silver, pennyroyal-scented leaves, used locally for tea in parts of Europe and W Asia where it occurs. Studies show that M. thymifolia is effective against a wide range of bacteria and fungi, notably pathogenic organisms that cause skin diseases. The so-called "Emperor's Mint", often sold in the UK as a species of Micromeria, appears to be Calamintha nepeta subsp. glandulosa. Mircromeria is from the Greek mikros, "small" and meris, "a part", referring to the very small leaves and flowers of these plants.

Erect, evergreen, branched perennial with smooth, elliptic to ovate, mid-green leaves, to 2cm (¾in) long, and tubular, white and violet flowers in summer.

Common Name:	Thyme-Leaved Savory
Botanical Name:	Micromeria thymifolia syn. Satureja thymifolia
Genus:	Micromeria
Family:	Lamiaceae
Native Location:	W. Balkan Peninsula, extending into Hungary and N Italy.
Cultivation:	Well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. Dislike excessive winter moisture.
Propagation:	By seed sown in spring at 5°C (41°F); by division in spring (perennials); by softwood cuttings in early summer (shrubs). Germination is often eratic and slow.
Harvest:	Leaves are picked in the growing season and used fresh.
Height:	20-50cm (8-20in)
:Width	15-25cm (6-10in)
Hardiness:	Z6-9
Parts Used:	Leaves
Properties:	An anti-bacterial, anti-fungal herb with a mint-thyme aroma.
Medicinal Uses:	Micromeria trhymifolia seems to be little used medicinally, but may have potential in the treatment of skin infections.
Culinary Uses:	Leaves are used to make tea, and sparingly to flavor savory dishes.
Bibliography:	Encylopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright ©: 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited pg 279