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Winter savory Facts

Winter savory Facts
Winter savory is hardy herbaceous plant that belongs to the mint family. It grows natively on the dry hillsides of the southern Europe and Mediterranean. Winter savory has been introduced to North America during the 18th century, when European settlers began colonization of the New World. It can survive on the soil of poor quality, but it requires plenty of sun for the successful growth. Winter savory is often cultivated in the culinary herb gardens and used as spice and herbal remedy today.
Interesting Winter savory Facts:
Winter savory has erect, bushy stem that can reach 6 to 12 inches in height and 8 to 12 inches in width.
Winter savory has oblong, smooth and glossy leaves that emit pine-like smell. Leaves are dark green colored and oppositely arranged on the branches.
Winter savory produces small, lilac or white-colored flowers arranged in the terminal spikes. Flowers contain both types of reproductive organs (perfect flowers).
Winter savory blooms from July to September. Flowers attract bees that are responsible for the pollination of this plant.
Fruit of winter savory: four nutlets.
Winter savory propagates via seeds, cuttings and division.
Winter savory and spring savory are closely related plants that differ in several aspects. Summer savory is annual plant, while winter savory is perennial plant. Winter savory is hardier plant that can survive on the less fertile soil. It has stronger flavor than summer savory and it is often used in dried form (summer savory is often consumed fresh). Winter savory has higher medicinal value than summer savory.
Shoots and leaves of winter savory are rich source of vitamin C, A and vitamins of the B group, and minerals such as zinc, magnesium, calcium and iron.
Harvest of winter savory takes place during the summer, when plant is in bloom. Leaves can be used fresh or more frequently in a dried form.
Winter savory has spicy, peppery flavor that perfectly combines with taste of beef, pork, beans and cheese. Winter savory is also frequently used for the preparation of potato salads, mushrooms, pasta, broths, seafood, mayonnaise and sandwiches.
Winter savory is used as flavoring agent of vinegar and alcoholic beverages (bitters and vermouth).
Winter savory was initially used as herbal remedy before it became popular as spice. Essential oil of winter savory has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-septic properties. It can be used in treatment of nausea, sore throat, rheumatism, gout, colic and flatulence.
Tea made of winter savory can be used in treatment of uterine contractions, menstrual irregularities, cough, gastric problems, as well as disorders of kidney and liver.
Winter savory is often cultivated near the beans and roses to keep the pest such as been weevils and aphids away from these plants.
Winter savory is perennial plant (life span: more than 2 years).


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