Micromeria juliana aka Savory

Micromeria juliana is a small shrub from the Mediterranean region. It belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. Kew lists its growth form as a subshrub. Plants For A Future describes it as a deciduous shrub. Savory is one common name used for this species. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. Its wild habitats include rocky ground and other dry, open sites. Kew places it within the subtropical climate zone.

This plant reaches about 1 foot (0.3 metres) in height. Its spread is also about 1 foot (0.3 metres). That small size suits a place in a cultivated bed. Plants For A Future also lists south- and west-facing wall sites. It flowers from June to August. Each flower has both male and female organs. Insects pollinate the flowers. Seeds ripen from August to September, following the summer flowering period.

Choose an open spot with full sun and good drainage. This plant does not grow in shade. Sandy and loamy soils both suit it. It can also grow where soil nutrients are low. The soil may be mildly acid, neutral, or mildly alkaline. Plants For A Future lists both dry and moist soil as suitable. Good drainage remains important in either case. The same source gives a USDA hardiness range of zones 6–9.

The leaves have a food use as a seasoning. They can take the place of savory in food. Plants For A Future gives edibility a low score: one out of five. It also records use for kidney and bladder complaints. Its medicinal rating is one out of five. These records describe uses, rather than proof that treatment works. The source lists no known hazards for the species. That does not establish safety for every person or pet.

To raise plants from seed, sow in a greenhouse in spring. Move seedlings into separate pots once large enough to handle. Keep them in the greenhouse through their first winter. Plant out in late spring or early summer, after expected frosts. Another method uses half-ripe cuttings with a heel. Take these in July or August and use a frame. Plants For A Future does not flag the species as weedy.