Hardy woody perennial

Culinary, Ornamental

4 to 16 inches high, 3 to 8 inches wide

Full sun

Rich, moist, well-drained soil

 Winter Savory, Satureja MontanaWinter savory grows slowly, reaching no more than 12 inches high. Mature, glossy, deep green leaves are pointed and narrow, developing from short woody stems.This is an especially decorative, low-growing and densely spreading shrub. White or lavender-blue flowers bloom on short spikes in late summer. A good border plant for an herb or a vegetable garden. Winter savory also excels in a rock garden, where its evergreen branches can trail gracefully over the edges of stones.

Savory was well-known to the classical Greeks and Romans. Its genus name Satureja may derive from satyrus, or satyr, referring to its aphrodisiac effects. Hippocrates ascribed medicinal properties to it.
Winter savory was well known in early England, as well. Culpeper recommended it for ringing ears and in poultices for easing the pain from bee and wasp stings. This last remedy of rubbing a bruised sprig on a bee sting remains valid today. Early American settlers treated colds and fevers with savory tea.

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