Satureja spicigera
creeping savory
A creeping subshrub to 10cm tall, with slender, upright to spreading stems clothed with small, aromatic, linear leaves. In summer it produces whorls of tubular white flowers on erect spikes. The leaves are used fresh or dried as a culinary herb
Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cmTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Green | |||
Autumn | Green | |||
Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Matforming
- Genus
Satureja can be annuals, perennials or subshrubs with aromatic, linear to obovate leaves and spike-like clusters of tubular 2-lipped flowers in summer
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- NE Turkey to N Iran
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil in full sun. Protect from excessive winter wet
Propagation
Propagate by seed or greenwood cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Patio and container plants
- Rock garden
- Banks and slopes
- Garden edging
- Underplanting of roses and shrubs
Pruning
Clip back to maintain a compact shape after flowering
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.