Summer savory (Satureja hortensis)

Summer savory

Summer savory (Satureja hortensis) is an aromatic herb native to rich soils in the Northern Hemisphere. It is commonly used as a culinary herb, similarly to sage. Summer savory is most widespread and well-known in Canada, Germany, and Romania.

Scientific classification

Species

Summer savory (Satureja hortensis)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Annual, Perennial, Biennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Early fall

Bloom Time

Late summer, Early fall

Harvest Time

Black

Fruit Color

White, Pink, Purple

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Images of Summer savory

Distribution of Summer savory

Distribution Map

Summer savory is a plant originally native to regions of Southern and Southeastern Europe, Western Asia, and the Himalayas. It has been widely introduced and cultivated in several continents, including Europe, Asia, and the Americas, thriving in temperate to subtropical climates. Now commonly found across a broad range of ecological zones, summer savory has adapted to various regions beyond its native habitat.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Dry gravelly, stony slopes

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Summer savory is a deer-resistant plant prized by gardeners for its aromatic lance-shaped deep green leaves and petite white flowers clustered in small whorls which attract bees. It is suitable for herb, cottage, and city gardens; either as a small styled hedge or within borders.

Symbolism

Honesty and sympathy

Interesting Facts

Summer savory has been present as a culinary herb in the Mediterranean for more than 2,000 years. Ancient Romans used summer savory as a medicinal herb, and they believed that this aromatic plant has aphrodisiac properties. They even called the spice 'the herb of love'.

Name Story

Summer savory||Annual savory: Unlike its winter counterpart called winter savory (Satureja montana) which is a perennial plant, summer savory or annual savory is an annual plant, hence its common name. Both types of herbs have a peppery flavor, but summer savory is sweeter and milder.

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Quickly Identify Summer savory

Lance-shaped leaves, 1-3 inches (2.5-7.6 cm) long, with fine-toothed edges.

Tubular, lip-shaped flowers in lilac to white hues, borne in whorls.

Small nutlets with oblong-ovoid shape, around 1/8 inch in size.

Linear leaves with gland-dots and simple hairs, smooth and slightly glossy.

Slender stem covered in short, white hairs, branching with rough texture.

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Care Guide for Summer savory

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Summer savory, originating from a warm climate, prefers moderate weekly watering and well-drained soil to avoid waterlogging. Thriving outdoors, it benefits from natural rainfall, aligning its care with its native hydration cycle, ensuring optimal moisture without the risks of indoor stagnation.

Fertilize: For summer savory, optimal fertilization includes balanced nutrition fertilizers with high nitrogen during peak growth, applied every 2-3 weeks. A lighter application is suggested during dormancy. Use about a teaspoon of granular fertilizer per plant, distributing evenly and watering thoroughly to prevent over-fertilization.

Pruning: Summer savory is an aromatic herbaceous annual that thrives with careful pruning. In early spring, trim one-third to enhance bushiness and flavor. Remove spent flowers and straggly stems to prevent legginess. Use clean, sharp tools to minimize disease risk and plant stress.

Propagation: Summer savory propagates easily by sowing seeds in Spring. Minimal effort is needed, with successful propagation indicated by germination and healthy seedlings. Use well-drained soil and maintain proper spacing for optimal growth.

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Images of Summer savory

Distribution of Summer savory

Culture

Quickly Identify Summer savory

Care Guide for Summer savory

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Common Pests & Diseases