About
In late summer it produces whorls of tubular, purple flowers. An evergreen subshrub to 20cm tall, with slender, upright stems bearing strongly aromatic, leathery, linear leaves. The leaves are used fresh and dried as a culinary herb.
About the genus
Satureja can be annuals, perennials or subshrubs with aromatic, linear to obovate leaves and spike-like clusters of tubular 2-lipped flowers in summer
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs, Herbs - Culinary
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil in full sun. Protect from excessive winter wet
PruningClip back to maintain a compact shape after flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed or greenwood cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free