Pink savory, Spanish thyme
satureja thymbra
Also known as: ["Pink savory","Spanish thyme","Dittany"]
Overview
A perennial herb native to the Mediterranean region, known for its aromatic leaves and culinary uses.
Benefits & Perks
["culinary herb","fragrant flowers","medicinal use","aesthetic foliage","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Satureja |
| Botanical Name: | Satureja thymbra |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, herb gardens, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer sun by providing partial shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade if necessary.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 7.0–7.5).
Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid overwatering; amend with lime if soil is too acidic.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options like compost tea.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; division of clumps can also be effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and bright but indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems to just above a leaf node or bud; shape as desired.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead or diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or cessation of growth in extreme cold; scorching or yellowing leaves in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold; susceptible to root rot in cold, wet soil.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cover; ensure good drainage; move potted plants indoors during freezes.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or curl; growth may slow; essential oils may become more concentrated.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity with misting; water deeply but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSatureja thymbra is not considered toxic to cats when ingested in small to moderate quantities. Similar to dogs, excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's essential oils, but it is not classified as a toxic plant for felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in small to moderate amounts
Dogs
Non-toxicSatureja thymbra is not considered toxic to dogs when ingested in small to moderate quantities. The plant's essential oils and aromatic compounds may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if consumed in large amounts, but it is not classified as a toxic plant for canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in small to moderate amounts
Humans
Non-toxicSatureja thymbra, commonly known as pink savory, is generally considered non-toxic to humans when consumed in culinary amounts. However, excessive ingestion may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its essential oils and aromatic compounds. The plant has been traditionally used in herbal medicine and as a culinary herb without significant toxic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in excessive quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Satureja thymbra safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How should I care for Satureja thymbra?
A: It prefers full sun and well-drained soil, and requires minimal watering once established.
Q: Can Satureja thymbra be used in cooking?
A: Yes, its leaves are used as a culinary herb, similar to thyme.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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