Contents
Description
Satureja Montana, commonly known as Winter savory, is an evergreen herb that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to Southern Europe but has now spread to other parts of the world. The plant has a woody stem that grows up to 30cm tall and produces small, white or pink flowers in the summer. Winter savory has a strong, pungent, and slightly bitter taste that is similar to thyme but with a more peppery flavor.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Satureja |
Appearance
Winter savory has small, glossy, dark-green leaves that are narrow and lance-shaped. The leaves are about 1cm long and grow on woody stems. The plant produces small white or pink flowers that grow in clusters at the end of the stems. The flowers have a tubular shape and are about 5mm long. Winter savory is an evergreen herb that retains its leaves throughout the year.
Care Guide
Winter savory is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. It requires well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline and full sun. The plant can tolerate drought and prefers to be watered only when the soil is dry. Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Winter savory can withstand cold temperatures and is hardy in zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Winter savory is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is poorly drained. Spider mites and aphids can occasionally infest the plant but can be controlled by spraying the plant with a solution of soapy water.
Habitat
Winter savory is native to Southern Europe and can be found growing in rocky, dry areas. It is commonly grown in herb gardens and is used in cooking to add flavor to meat, fish, and vegetable dishes. Winter savory has also been used for medicinal purposes for centuries and is believed to have antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and digestive properties.
Question and Answer
1. What is the taste of Winter savory?
Ans: Winter savory has a strong, pungent, and slightly bitter taste that is similar to thyme but with a more peppery flavor.
2. What is the ideal soil pH for Winter savory?
Ans: Winter savory prefers slightly alkaline soil with a pH between 7.0-8.0.
3. What is the hardiness zone for Winter savory?
Ans: Winter savory is hardy in zones 5-8.
4. What are the common pests and diseases that affect Winter savory?
Ans: Winter savory is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is poorly drained. Spider mites and aphids can occasionally infest the plant but can be controlled by spraying the plant with a solution of soapy water.
Related Plants
- Satureja Hortensis (Summer savory)
- Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme)
- Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary)
- Ocimum Basilicum (Basil)
References
- “Satureja Montana – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e567.
- “Winter Savory: Growing Guide.” GrowVeg, www.growveg.com/guides/winter-savory-growing-guide/.
- “Winter Savory.” University of Minnesota Extension, www.extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-insects/herb-garden/winter-savory/.
