Satureja

Satureja is a genus of aromatic plants from the family Lamiaceae, which includes about 30 species. The species are native to warm temperate regions of North America, South America, and Eurasia. Many members of the genus are cultivated as culinary herbs known as savory, and for traditional medicine.

Description

Plants in the genus Satureja are small, perennial herbs, subshrubs and shrubs. They are hairy, smooth-leaved, with small leaves up to 1 cm long. The flowers are 1–2 cm long, with a five-lobed white, pink, or purple (rarely yellow or red) corolla.

Taxonomy

The genus Satureja was first described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753. The name Satureja is derived from the Latin satura, meaning "full" or "rich".

Species

There are about 30 species in the genus Satureja. Some of the most well-known species include:

• Satureja hortensis (Summer savory)
• Satureja montana (Winter savory)
• Satureja douglasii (Yerba buena)
• Satureja spicigera (Creeping savory)
• Satureja viminea (Serpolet)

Uses

Satureja species are used as culinary herbs. They have a strong, slightly peppery flavor, and are used in cooking for their aromatic properties. Some species, such as S. hortensis and S. montana, are used to flavor food. The leaves are used fresh or dried, and the flowering tops are used fresh, dried, or preserved in vinegar.

In traditional medicine, Satureja species are used for their antiseptic, digestive, and expectorant properties. They are also used in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, coughs, and colds.

Cultivation

Satureja species are easy to grow in light, well-drained soil. They prefer full sun and a well-drained soil. They are drought tolerant and can be grown in containers.

See also

• List of culinary herbs and spices
• List of Lamiaceae genera

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