Savory (Satureja): The Aromatic Herb That’s Easy to Grow
If you’re looking for a fragrant, low-maintenance herb to add to your garden, savory might just be the perfect fit. This compact, aromatic plant has been beloved by gardeners and cooks for centuries, offering both culinary delights and simple beauty to outdoor spaces.
What is Savory?
Savory, scientifically known as Satureja, is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family. This charming little plant is what botanists call a forb – essentially a non-woody herbaceous plant that keeps its growing points at or below ground level. Don’t let the technical terms fool you though; savory is simply a delightful, easy-going herb that won’t take over your garden with aggressive woody growth.
Where Does Savory Grow?
Here’s where things get interesting with savory’s travel story. While some species are native to Puerto Rico, most savory varieties you’ll encounter are actually non-native plants that have made themselves quite at home across North America. You can find established populations growing in states from Maine to Virginia, and as far west as Illinois and Wisconsin. In Canada, it’s considered a waif – a rather whimsical botanical term for a plant that shows up temporarily but doesn’t stick around permanently.
Why Grow Savory?
Despite not being native to most North American regions, savory offers several appealing qualities for gardeners:
- Culinary versatility: Fresh or dried leaves add a peppery, thyme-like flavor to dishes
- Low maintenance: Once established, it’s quite drought tolerant and requires minimal care
- Compact size: Perfect for small spaces, containers, or herb garden borders
- Pollinator friendly: Small flowers attract bees and other beneficial insects
- Aromatic foliage: Releases pleasant fragrance when brushed or crushed
Garden Design and Landscape Role
Savory works beautifully in several garden settings. It’s a natural choice for herb gardens, where its compact growth won’t overshadow neighboring plants. The plant also thrives in rock gardens and Mediterranean-style landscapes, where its drought tolerance and aromatic qualities shine. Consider using it as an edging plant along pathways, where foot traffic will release its delightful scent.
Growing Conditions and Care
The good news about savory is that it’s refreshingly easy to please. Here’s what it needs to thrive:
- Sunlight: Full sun for best growth and flavor
- Soil: Well-draining soil is essential – it won’t tolerate soggy conditions
- Water: Drought tolerant once established, but benefits from occasional deep watering
- Hardiness: Generally hardy in USDA zones 5-9, though this can vary by specific variety
Planting and Maintenance Tips
Getting savory established in your garden is straightforward. Plant it in spring after the last frost, spacing plants about 8-12 inches apart. Regular harvesting actually encourages bushier growth, so don’t be shy about snipping stems for cooking. After the flowering period, cut the plant back to encourage fresh growth and maintain its compact shape.
A Word About Native Alternatives
While savory can be a lovely addition to your garden, consider exploring native alternatives that provide similar benefits while supporting local ecosystems. Native herbs like wild bergamot (Monarda) or native mints can offer aromatic foliage and pollinator benefits while being perfectly suited to your local environment.
The Bottom Line
Savory is a charming, undemanding herb that can add both flavor and fragrance to your garden. While it may not be native to most North American regions, it’s not considered invasive and can coexist peacefully with other plants. Whether you’re an experienced herb gardener or just starting out, savory’s forgiving nature and useful qualities make it worth considering – especially if you love cooking with fresh herbs or enjoy plants that attract beneficial pollinators to your garden.
