Satureja montana (Winter savory) – the aromatic winter herb

Satureja montana, commonly known as Winter Savory, is a perennial, hardy culinary herb that offers aromatic foliage year-round. It belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is prized in both the kitchen and the herb garden for its strong, peppery flavor. Winter Savory is ideal for stews, meat, beans, and winter soups and is also easy to grow in the garden, even on sunny patios or in pots.

Characteristics of Satureja montana

Winter savory differs from the annual Summer savory (Satureja hortensis) in its perennial and hardy characteristics. Key features:

• Leaf: narrow, green to dark green, aromatic and firm

• Height: 30–50 cm, compact shrub form

• Flowers: small white-pink to lilac flowers in summer

• Smell and taste: strong, peppery and aromatic, stronger than Summer savory

• Location: full sun, well-drained soil

• Maintenance: requires little water, hardy

These properties make Satureja montana a robust and versatile herb that is useful in both the garden and the kitchen.

Culinary applications

Winter savory has a more intense flavor than Summer savory and is therefore particularly suitable for savory, winter dishes.

Usage tips:

• Add fresh or dried leaves to beans, lentils, stews and meat dishes

• Use in soups and sauces for a rich, spicy flavor

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

• Ideal for marinades and herb sauces

The powerful flavour of Winter Savory means you only need a small amount to enhance a dish.

Health benefits

Satureja montana is valued not only for its taste, but also for its health-promoting properties:

• Digestion – supports intestinal function and reduces bloating

• Antioxidants – protect cells against oxidative stress

• Antibacterial properties – traditionally used for minor infections

• Nutrients – contains vitamin C, calcium and iron

With regular use, Winter Savory can contribute to both tasty and healthy meals.

Cultivation and care

Satureja montana is easy to grow, even for novice gardeners. Important tips for a healthy plant:

• Location: full sun for aromatic and healthy leaves

• Soil: well-drained, slightly calcareous, avoid waterlogging

• Water: moderate, avoid overwatering

• Harvesting: Leaves can be harvested several times a year; regular pruning encourages new growth

• Winter hardy: can remain in the garden and overwinters well

This simple care will keep the plant compact, healthy and productive.

Application in the garden

Winter savory is not only a culinary herb, but also a beautiful garden plant:

• Herb Garden – A Hardy Alternative to Summer Savory

• Pots and containers – ideal for patios or balconies

• Borders – combines well with other Mediterranean herbs such as thyme, rosemary and oregano

• Pollinator-friendly – ​​attracts bees and butterflies in summer

Thanks to its compact growth and aromatic leaves, Winter Savory is both practical and decorative.