In the garden:
Growth Characteristics:
• Useful edging plant.
Summer Savory ( S. hortensis ):
•Annual, Frost tolerant.
•Height: ±45cm; Spread: ±30cm.
•Small white/mauve flowers in summer.
•Leaves are aromatic, oblong, pointed and greyish.
•Known as the Bean herb.
Winter Savory ( S. montana ):
•Perennial, Evergreen, Frost tolerant.
•Height: ±40cm; Spread: ±30cm.
•Small white/pink flowers in summer.
•Leaves are dark green, linear and very aromatic.
Cultivation:
• Full sun; Well drained, composted soil.
Harvesting:
• Pick fresh leaves and flowers throughout the year.
Companion Planting:
• Vegetables: Plant with Beans, Onions, Attracting Beneficial insects: Bees.
Culinary use:
Use Winter and Summer Savory leaves. The flavour is hot and peppery and can be used with:
• Vegetables, Pulses, Widely used in bean dishes as it helps to prevent flatulence.
• Fresh Salads.
• Eggs.
• Rich meats, Flavouring Salami, Sausages, Chicken.
• Use as a replacement for Salt and Pepper if on a salt free diet, Butters, Marinades, Vinegars, Oils, Savory Jellies, Stuffings.
• An ingredient of herbes de Provence , with Rosemary, Thyme and Origanum.
• Italian dishes.
Cosmetic use:
• Add to the bath or use as a facial steam as an astringent and antiseptic for oily skin.
Health benefits
Summer Savory may be beneficial in the following cases:
General
• Alleviate the pain of bee stings if rubbed on the affected spot.
• Considered a stimulant and was once in demand as an aphrodisiac.
• Use as an antiseptic gargle.
Lymphatic System
• Bronchial conditions, Sore throat.
Digestive system
• Stimulate appetite.
• Ease indigestion and flatulence.
Preparation and dosage:
• TEA:
A cup, 2 times per day.