Common Name: |
Winter Savory |
Genus |
Satureja |
Botanical Name: |
Satureja montana |
Family: |
Lamiaceae |
Native Location: |
S Europe |
Cultivation |
Well-drained to dry, neutral to alkaline soil in sun. Satureja douglasii needs moist, sandy, slightly acid loam, and partial shade. Pinch out new shoots in spring to encourage bushiness. Cut back perennials in early spring. Winter crops of S. hortensis may be grown in pots in greenhouses at 7-10°C (45-50°F) or from seed sown in early autumn; it reputedly deters Mexican bean beetles if planted along rows of legumes. |
Propagation |
By seed sown in spring at 13-16°C (55-61°F); by division in autumn or spring (perennials); by greenwood cuttings in summer (shrubby species). |
Harvest |
Leaves are harvested during the growing season. Flowering tops are picked in summer. Both are used fresh, or dried for infusions and oil extraction. |
Height: |
10-40cm (4-16in) |
Width: |
20cm (8in) |
Variations: |
Var citriodora (Lemon Savory) Is small and spreading, with a lemon-like flavor Height: 15cm (6in). |
Purple Mountain Is compact, with a good flavor and bright purple flowers. Height: 23cm (9in). |
|
Hardiness |
Z5-8 |
Parts Used: |
Leaves, shoots |
Properties |
As for S. hortensis (See, Summer Savory), but with a higher proportion of thymol. |
Medicinal Uses: |
Internally for indigestion, nausea, colic, diarrhea, bronchial congestion, sore throat, and menstrual disorders. Externally for sore throat and insect stings. |
Culinary Uses: |
Is used in the same ways as S. hortensis (See, Summer Savory), but has a more pungent flavor. |
Warning: |
Contraindicated during pregnancy. |
Bibliography: |
Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Bown Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited. pp 361-362 |