Creeping Savory

Satureja spicigera

Basic Information

Family: Lamiaceae

Genus: satureja

Plant ID (slug): satureja-spicigera

Numeric ID: 26318

USDA Hardiness: 6-9

Ratings

Physical Characteristics

Satureja spicigera is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in) by 0.6 m (2ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

W. Asia - Iran, Caucasus.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds; East Wall. In. South Wall. In. West Wall. In.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Condiment Leaves - raw or cooked[238]. A peppery flavour, they are used mainly as a flavouring for cooked dishes, especially beans, but are also used as a garnish for salads etc[183]. They have a stronger flavour than summer savory (S. hortensis)[238]. The leaves can be used fresh or dried[183].

Medicinal Uses

Antirheumatic Antiseptic Aromatic Carminative Digestive Expectorant Stings Stomachic The whole herb, and especially the flowering shoots, is antiseptic, aromatic, carminative, digestive, expectorant and stomachic[4, 7, 14, 21]. Taken internally, it is said to be a sovereign remedy for colic and a cure for flatulence[4], whilst it is also used to treat nausea, diarrhoea, bronchial congestion, sore throat and menstrual disorders[238]. It should not be prescribed for pregnant women[238]. A sprig of the plant, rubbed onto bee or wasp stings, brings instant relief[4]. The plant is harvested in the summer when in flower and can be used fresh or dried[238]. The essential oil forms an ingredient in lotions for the scalp in cases of incipient baldness[7]. An ointment made from the plant is used externally to relieve arthritic joints[7].