Satureja hortensis 'Pikanta' – spicy aromatic culinary herb

Satureja hortensis, commonly known as Summer Savory or Summer St. John's Wort, is an annual, aromatic herb highly prized in cooking. The 'Pikanta' cultivar is distinguished by a more intense, spicy flavor and a powerful aroma, adding character and depth to dishes such as beans, meats, vegetables, and soups. This easy-care herb is ideal for sunny gardens, balconies, and herb gardens, offering both culinary and aesthetic value.

Characteristics of Satureja hortensis 'Pikanta'

Satureja hortensis 'Pikanta' belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae) and grows upright with compact, bushy stems. The plant reaches a height of 30–50 cm and forms a dense, aromatic shrub. Small, oval leaves exude a spicy fragrance when crushed. In summer, the plant blooms with small white to lilac flowers, which are not only ornamental but also attract bees and butterflies.

Key Features:

• Height: 30–50 cm

• Leaf: aromatic, small, green

• Flowers: white to lilac, attractive to pollinators

• Aroma: spicier and more intense than standard Summer savory

• Location: full sun, well-drained soil

• Maintenance: simple, little water required

These properties make Satureja hortensis 'Pikanta' valuable both culinary and ecologically.

Culinary applications

The 'Pikanta' variety has a stronger, spicier flavour than regular Summer savory, making it ideal for dishes that could use a little more spice.

Usage tips:

• Add fresh leaves to beans, vegetables, soups, stews and meat dishes

• Dried leaves can be used as a flavouring in spice mixes or marinades

• Combine with other Mediterranean herbs such as thyme, rosemary, oregano or parsley

• Ideal for homemade herb oil or herb sauce

Due to its spicy flavour, only a few leaves are needed to give a dish a full, aromatic touch.

Health benefits

Besides its flavor, Satureja hortensis 'Pikanta' also offers several health benefits:

• Digestion – supports intestinal function and relieves bloating

• Antioxidants – protect cells against free radicals

• Antibacterial action – traditionally used for mild infections

• Nutrients – rich in vitamin C, calcium and iron

Regular use of Summer savory 'Pikanta' can contribute to a healthy, tasty diet.

Cultivation and care

Satureja hortensis 'Pikanta' is easy to grow, even for novice gardeners. Tips for successful cultivation:

• Location: full sun for aromatic leaves

• Soil: well-drained, neutral to slightly calcareous

• Water: Water moderately, avoid overwatering

• Harvesting: Leaves can be harvested several times per season; pruning encourages new growth

• Overwintering: annual, sow again every spring or grow in pots

Regular harvesting keeps the plant compact and productive.

Application in the garden

Satureja hortensis 'Pikanta' is both functional and decorative:

• Herb garden – an essential part of a herb bed

• Pots and containers – ideal for balconies or patios

• Borders – combine with oregano, thyme or sage

• Pollinator-friendly – ​​attracts bees and butterflies during flowering

With its compact growth, aromatic foliage, and attractive flowers, Summer Savory 'Pikanta' is a practical and beautiful addition to the garden.