Greek savory
micromeria graeca
Also known as: ["Greek savory","wild savory"]
Overview
A small, aromatic evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region, valued for its culinary and medicinal uses.
Benefits & Perks
["culinary herb","fragrant flowers","drought tolerant","deer resistant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Micromeria |
| Botanical Name: | Micromeria graeca |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, herb gardens, or containers in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to maintain shape and health.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; water early in the day.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand
Hormone
Optional, but recommended for faster rooting
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; keep soil consistently moist.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or leggy growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune in spring; remove dead or diseased growth; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; mix in compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or yellowing leaves in cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop or damage if exposed to freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering if exposed to prolonged high heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMicromeria graeca is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicMicromeria graeca is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicMicromeria graeca is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is a fragrant herb with no known toxic effects when consumed in typical culinary or medicinal doses.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Micromeria graeca edible?
A: Yes, it is commonly used as a culinary herb, particularly in Mediterranean cuisine.
Q: How often should I water Micromeria graeca?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, as it is drought-tolerant.
Q: Does Micromeria graeca attract wildlife?
A: It can attract pollinators such as bees due to its fragrant flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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