Satureja montana aka Savory

Satureja montana, or winter savory, belongs to the mint family. Its native range spans south-central and southern Europe to Lebanon. This small perennial has woody stems and a low, spreading shape. Its many stems form a rounded, bushy clump. Leaves may stay green year-round or partly drop in winter. Wild plants grow on dry banks, rocks, and old walls. These sites often have lime-rich soil.

Garden plants reach about 0.5–1.5 feet [0.15–0.46 metres] tall. They spread about 0.7–1.5 feet [0.2–0.46 metres] wide. RHS gives broader size bands reaching 1.6 feet [0.5 metres]. The stiff leaves grow in pairs along the stems. They are narrow, pointed, dark green, and sometimes grey-green. Their glossy surface has no hairs. Each leaf reaches about 0.08 feet [0.025 metres] long. The leaves give off a strong scent when handled.

Small flowers form spikes at the ends of stems. Their colours range from white through lilac to purple. Bloom runs from June to August. Bees visit the flowers, and the plant also attracts butterflies. The fruit is a small nut. Both leaves and flowers are edible and taste peppery. Use fresh or dried leaves to season beans and meat. They also flavour fish, soups, stews, and salads. Fresh or dried leaves can make a herb tea. PFAF reports no known hazards for this species. It also records traditional uses for digestive complaints. Those records do not establish that such treatments work.

Grow winter savory in full sun and well-drained soil. Sandy, rocky, or loamy soil can suit it. Neutral to alkaline soil is preferred, though NC State lists acid tolerance. It handles dry soil and drought once growing well. Light shade is tolerated, but damp ground and shade suit it poorly. Missouri Botanical Garden lists USDA zones 5–8; NC State extends this to 10. RHS rates its UK hardiness as H5. Growth is fast, and old shoots need cutting back in early spring. Summer softwood cuttings offer one way to raise new plants.

Winter savory fits herb beds, rock gardens, and border fronts. It also grows in pots and along rock walls. Clipping can give an edging a neat shape. Plants can serve as low ground cover. Sources describe it as a companion for beans and onions. They also report insect-repelling uses and oil from the leaves. Serious pests and diseases rarely cause trouble. Deer tend to leave the plant alone. Older plants may lose vigour, so replacement can help maintain leafy growth.