Winter Savory, Satureja montana, is native to southern European countries, but was spread by the Romans throughout their Empire including the UK, and is used for cooking and in medicine. A perennial, semi-evergreen, dwarf shrub that produces dense spikes of white, pale lavender or pink flowers, it is closely related to the annual herb, summer savory, Satureja hortensis. It grows happily in herb beds, alongside cottage garden flowers or in containers; and is a known companion plant in the vegetable patch. While attracting useful pollinators, it also helps to repel pests from cabbages, beans and even roses.
As a medicinal plant, it was known to the ancient Romans and was recommended by medieval herbalists for digestive disorders, as well as cough and sore throat. It is helpful in relieving pain from bee stings and insect bites. An essential oil can be extracted for use in herbal preparations, or the leaves and flowers dried.
This is a short entry – we aim to add more information soon.
