Profile
SaturejaSatureja
Satureja is a popular culinary herb with a spicy, slightly peppery flavor. It is known for its digestive properties and is traditionally served with hearty dishes and legumes. The plant is easy to care for and grows well in both beds and pots.

Quick profile
Key data
Harvest
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Water
medium
Good neighbors
BeanCabbageRadishcommon sage
Growing data
Satureja Growing data
Seed depth
0.5 - 1 cm
Plant spacing
20 - 30 cm
Row spacing
25 - 40 cm
Germination temp
15 - 25 °C
Sowing and germination
Planting and spacing
Temperature and site
Water, nutrients and care
Container, support and growth
Year plan
Satureja Calendar
Indoor sowing
Satureja is usually sown directly into the open ground.
Direct sowing
Direct sowing into the open ground as soon as the risk of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up.
Planting
As Satureja is usually sown directly, transplanting seedlings is generally not necessary.
Harvest
Harvest leaves and stems as needed, preferably before flowering for the most intense aroma. Multiple cuts are possible.
Year plan
- Sow outdoors
- Sow outdoors
- First harvest
- Regular harvesting
- Continuous harvesting
- Harvest for preservation
- Final harvest
Growing
Satureja Site, soil and care
Spacing
20 - 30 cm
Storage
Dried: Cool, dry, dark, Frozen: Freezer bag, Seeds: Cool, dry, dark
Satureja is robust and easy to care for. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. Regular harvesting promotes bushy growth and prevents premature flowering. Harvest before flowering for the most intense aroma.
Pruning
Satureja Pruning
renewal_pruning_light
Goal
renewal_pruning_light
Pruning timing
spring
Removal of dead plant parts and thinning As soon as new shoots become visible, old, dead stems can be cut close to the ground.
summer
Harvesting and promoting bushy growth Regular harvesting of shoot tips encourages branching and prevents premature flowering, which improves aroma.
autumn
Final harvest before winter Before the first hard frost, shoots can be harvested again for preservation.
Remove
- Dead plant parts in spring
- Excessively woody or old shoots that yield little
- Diseased or damaged shoots at any time
Preserve
- Young, green shoots for harvest
- Base of the plant for regrowth next year
Avoid
- Radical cutting back into old wood, as this can hinder regeneration
- Pruning during severe frost periods
Tools and hygiene
Use sharp and clean tools to ensure clean cuts and prevent disease transmission.
Companion guide
Satureja Companion guide
Good neighbors
BeanCabbageRadishcommon sageThymus
Health
Pests, Diseases
Pests
Small, sucking insects that colonize young shoots and leaves, feeding on plant sap. They can cause growth disturbances and sticky honeydew excretions.
Tiny arachnids that appear in dry, warm weather. They suck plant sap, leading to fine webbing, yellowish speckles, and eventually leaf desiccation.
Small, flying insects that colonize the underside of leaves and suck plant sap. They leave behind honeydew, which can lead to sooty mold.
Diseases
Caused by fungi (e.g., Pythium, Phytophthora) in waterlogged and poorly drained conditions. Leads to wilting, stunted growth, and eventual plant death.
Fungal disease appearing as a white, powdery coating on leaves and stems. Reduces photosynthesis and can lead to plant part death in severe cases.
Plant health
FAQ
When is the best time to sow Satureja?
Satureja is best sown directly into the open ground as soon as the risk of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up, typically from April to June.
How much sun does Satureja need?
Satureja prefers a sunny location but also thrives in partial shade. Full sun promotes its aroma.
Can Satureja be grown in pots?
Yes, Satureja is very well-suited for growing in pots on balconies or terraces. Ensure adequate drainage and regular, but not excessive, watering.
When and how to harvest Satureja?
Harvest leaves and stems as needed, preferably before flowering for the most intense aroma. Cut the shoot tips to encourage bushy growth. Multiple harvests are possible.
What are the medicinal properties of Satureja?
Satureja is traditionally used to alleviate digestive complaints such as bloating and fullness. It has mild antibacterial and antispasmodic properties.
Related plants
Internal links
Related plants
Sources
Public sources
- Wikidata entity
Wikidata · 2026-05-12
- GBIF species match
GBIF · 2026-05-12
- Deutschsprachige Wikipedia: Bohnenkräuter
Wikipedia · 2026-05-12
- English Wikipedia: Satureja
Wikipedia · 2026-05-12
Details
More public plant data
Names
Common
Satureja
Plural
Satureja
Synonyms
- Savoury
- savory
Common synonyms
- Savoury
- savory
Regional names
Historical names
Market names
Misspellings
Search terms
- Satureja
Taxonomy
Clades
- Tracheophytes
- Angiosperms
- Eudicots
- Asterids
Family
Lamiaceae
Classification
Edible parts
- Leaves
- Stems
Calendar
Sowing indoor
Notes
Satureja is usually sown directly into the open ground.
Sowing outdoor
Months
- 4
- 5
- 6
Notes
Direct sowing into the open ground as soon as the risk of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up.
Planting out
Notes
As Satureja is usually sown directly, transplanting seedlings is generally not necessary.
Harvest
Months
- 6
- 7
- 8
- 9
- 10
Notes
Harvest leaves and stems as needed, preferably before flowering for the most intense aroma. Multiple cuts are possible.
Month tasks
4
Sow outdoors
5
Sow outdoors
6
First harvest
7
Regular harvesting
8
Continuous harvesting
9
Harvest for preservation
10
Final harvest
Month tasks structured
4
- TaskSow outdoors
Label
Sow outdoors
PriorityhighMonths
- 4
ConditionSoil temperature at least 10°C, no frost risk.Estimated effortlowNotes
Sow seeds in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist.
5
- TaskSow outdoors
Label
Sow outdoors
PrioritymediumMonths
- 5
ConditionSoil temperature at least 10°C, no frost risk.Estimated effortlowNotes
Resow if needed for a longer harvest period.
6
- TaskHarvest
Label
First harvest
PriorityhighMonths
- 6
ConditionPlants are established and have sufficient foliage.Estimated effortlowNotes
Harvest the top shoot tips to encourage branching.
7
- TaskHarvest
Label
Regular harvesting
PriorityhighMonths
- 7
ConditionPlants are actively growing.Estimated effortlowNotes
Regular harvesting promotes bushy growth and prevents premature flowering.
8
- TaskHarvest
Label
Continuous harvesting
PriorityhighMonths
- 8
ConditionPlants are actively growing.Estimated effortlowNotes
Harvest as needed for fresh use.
9
- TaskHarvest for preservation
Label
Harvest for preservation
PrioritymediumMonths
- 9
ConditionBefore flowering or before heavy frost.Estimated effortmediumNotes
Harvest generously for drying or freezing before the plant becomes woody.
10
- TaskFinal harvest
Label
Final harvest
PriorityhighMonths
- 10
ConditionBefore the first hard frost.Estimated effortlowNotes
Harvest all remaining shoots before the first hard frost.
Book content
Overview
Satureja is a popular culinary herb with a spicy, slightly peppery flavor. It is known for its digestive properties and is traditionally served with hearty dishes and legumes. The plant is easy to care for and grows well in both beds and pots.
Structured month tasks
4
- TaskSow outdoors
Label
Sow outdoors
PriorityhighMonths
- 4
ConditionSoil temperature at least 10°C, no frost risk.Estimated effortlowNotes
Sow seeds in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist.
5
- TaskSow outdoors
Label
Sow outdoors
PrioritymediumMonths
- 5
ConditionSoil temperature at least 10°C, no frost risk.Estimated effortlowNotes
Resow if needed for a longer harvest period.
6
- TaskHarvest
Label
First harvest
PriorityhighMonths
- 6
ConditionPlants are established and have sufficient foliage.Estimated effortlowNotes
Harvest the top shoot tips to encourage branching.
7
- TaskHarvest
Label
Regular harvesting
PriorityhighMonths
- 7
ConditionPlants are actively growing.Estimated effortlowNotes
Regular harvesting promotes bushy growth and prevents premature flowering.
8
- TaskHarvest
Label
Continuous harvesting
PriorityhighMonths
- 8
ConditionPlants are actively growing.Estimated effortlowNotes
Harvest as needed for fresh use.
9
- TaskHarvest for preservation
Label
Harvest for preservation
PrioritymediumMonths
- 9
ConditionBefore flowering or before heavy frost.Estimated effortmediumNotes
Harvest generously for drying or freezing before the plant becomes woody.
10
- TaskFinal harvest
Label
Final harvest
PriorityhighMonths
- 10
ConditionBefore the first hard frost.Estimated effortlowNotes
Harvest all remaining shoots before the first hard frost.
Cultivation specs
Seed
Spacing
Spacing notes
Denser sowing results in smaller plants but can yield more per area.
Growth dimensions
Final size notes
Bushy growth, can vary depending on the variety.
Temperature
Temperature notes
Prefers warm locations but cannot tolerate severe frost.
Water
Critical water phases
- Germination
- Growth phase
Water notes
Consistent soil moisture is important; avoid waterlogging.
Nutrition
Nutrition notes
Requires only moderate nutrients. Over-fertilization can impair the aroma.
Container
Container notes
Choose a sufficiently deep pot with good drainage.
Support
Support notes
Usually self-supporting, but can be lightly supported if growth is very lush.
Cultivation modes
Yield density
Yield notes
Yields can vary depending on variety, location, and care.
Site
Location
Sunny to partial shade
Exposure
Sheltered from wind
Soil type
Well-draining, humus-rich, sandy-loam
PH range
Soil notes
Prefers slightly alkaline to neutral soils. Absolutely avoid waterlogging.
Soil
Soil texture
Sandy loam to loam
Soil fertility
Medium to high
Soil drainage
Good
Soil pH
Soil amendments
- Compost
- Sand (for heavy soils)
Soil notes
Good drainage is crucial. Improve light soils with compost.
Watering
Frequency
Regularly, keep soil lightly moist
Method
Directly at the root zone, avoid waterlogging
Notes
Water sufficiently, especially during dry periods and the germination and growth phases.
Nutrition
Fertilizer type
Organic, e.g., compost, horn shavings
Frequency
Moderate, especially at the beginning of the vegetation period
Notes
Avoid over-fertilization, as this can impair the aroma. A light application of compost in spring is usually sufficient.
Cultivation planning
Succession sowing
Bed planning notes
Well-suited for herb beds, rock gardens, or as border planting.
Notes
Satureja is a good companion for many vegetables, especially beans, cabbage, and radishes. It is said to repel pests.
Crop rotation
- Satureja is a good predecessor for many vegetable types, especially legumes like beans and peas, as it can enrich the soil with nitrogen.
- Avoid planting Satureja after other Lamiaceae family members or after itself in crop rotation to prevent diseases and pests.
Problems
Poor growth
Poor growth
Lack of aroma
Lack of aroma
Problem management
Common pest groups
- Sucking insects
- Mites
Common disease groups
- Fungal diseases (soil-borne)
- Fungal diseases (foliar)]
Prevention principles
- Site selection: Sunny, well-draining soil.
- Soil care: Avoid waterlogging, improve drainage.
- Plant health: Adequate nutrition (but avoid over-fertilization), appropriate watering.
- Crop rotation: Observe a 3-4 year break.
- Companion planting: Promote good neighbors, avoid bad ones.
- Hygiene: Remove infested plant parts.
Diagnosis notes
Observe specific symptoms such as discoloration, wilting, coatings, or webbing to identify the cause. The combination of site conditions, care, and the appearance of pests/diseases aids in diagnosis.
Disease graph
Profiles
- Slugroot_rotSeveritymedium
Conditions
- Waterlogging
- Poor drainage
- High humidity
Affected parts
- Roots
- Base of stem
Prevention
- Ensure good drainage
- Avoid waterlogging
- Observe crop rotation
Organic control
- Remove infected plants
- Soil improvement
- Biological fungicides
- Slugpowdery_mildewSeveritylow
Conditions
- Warm, dry days
- High humidity at night
- Poor air circulation
Affected parts
- Leaves
- Stems
Prevention
- Adequate spacing
- Good air circulation
- Avoid drought stress
Organic control
- Remove infected leaves
- Milk-water mixture
- Sulfur preparations
Diagnostic rules
Symptom
Wilting, yellowish leaves, stunted growth, often starting at the base of the plant.
Possible causes
- root_rot
First checks
- Check soil moisture (is it wet?)
- Examine roots for rot
Symptom
White, powdery coating on leaves and stems that spreads.
Possible causes
- powdery_mildew
First checks
- Check humidity and ventilation
- Isolate affected plant parts
Symptom
Small, green or black insects on young shoots, sticky residue (honeydew).
Possible causes
- aphids
First checks
- Inspect plants for pests (especially undersides of leaves and shoot tips)
- Look for honeydew
Prevention strategy
Cultural
- Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
- Avoid waterlogging through proper watering and soil improvement.
- Ensure sufficient plant spacing to promote air circulation.
- Maintain good crop rotation.
- Nutzen Sie vorteilhafte Nachbarn (Mischkultur).
Monitoring
- Regularly check for signs of pests and diseases, especially in wet weather or drought stress.
- Watch for changes in leaf color, growth disorders, or unusual coatings.
Organic first response
- For pest infestation: rinse with water, use beneficial insects, or apply biological sprays (e.g. potassium soap).
- For fungal infection: remove infected parts and treat with a milk-water mixture or sulfur products.
- For poor growth: check site, soil moisture, and nutrient supply.
Notes
Healthy, robust growth is the best prevention against many problems. Pay attention to the specific needs of Satureja.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing problems with Satureja relies on observing symptoms such as wilting, discoloration, leaf loss, abnormal growth, or the presence of pests. Checking site conditions (sun, soil, water) and care practices (fertilization, watering) is crucial. Differentiating between nutrient deficiency, diseases, pests, or environmental stress requires careful examination.
Phenology
Stages
- Germination: 7-21 days
- Growth: Spring to Autumn
- Flowering: Summer (June-August)
- Woody growth: Autumn
Notes
Satureja is a fast-growing plant. Flowering time can vary depending on the variety and location. Woody growth in autumn indicates preparation for overwintering.
Harvest
- Leaves and stems: June to October
- Seeds: Late summer to Autumn
Harvest details
Harvest frequency
Continuously during the growing season, main harvest before flowering and in autumn.
Harvest indicators
- Sufficient leaf mass for harvest.
- Intense aroma before flowering.
- Mature seed heads in autumn.
Post harvest handling
Use fresh leaves and stems immediately or dry/freeze. Allow seeds to dry completely.
Storage
- Dried: Cool, dry, dark
- Frozen: Freezer bag
- Seeds: Cool, dry, dark
Storage details
General storage category
Herbs, Seeds
Storage life
Dried herbs: 1-2 years. Seeds: 2-3 years.
Processing options
- Trocknen
- Einfrieren
- Preserving in oil or vinegar
- Samen gewinnen
Processing use
- Drying: Dry whole sprigs or leaves in a airy, shaded place. Store in an airtight container.
- Freezing: Freeze chopped leaves in ice cube trays with water or oil.
- Oil/Vinegar infusion: Steep sprigs in oil or vinegar to create flavored liquids.
- Seeds: After drying, separate from stems and use as a spice.
Kitchen usage
Satureja is a classic culinary herb, pairing particularly well with legumes (beans, peas), but also used in stews, soups, meat dishes, and salads. It has a sharp, peppery flavor. Both fresh and dried leaves are usable, with dried Satureja having a more intense taste.
Safety and edibility
Edible parts
- Leaves
- Young shoots
Inedible or caution parts
- Roots
- Woody stems (raw)
Toxicity notes
Satureja is considered non-toxic and safe for consumption in normal culinary amounts. In very high consumption, essential oils could theoretically have an irritant effect.
Raw consumption
Young leaves and shoots can be consumed raw in small quantities, e.g., in salads. The flavor is very intense when raw.
Seed saving
Seeds can be harvested from mature plants in autumn. The plants are mostly self-pollinating, which facilitates seed purity.
Seed saving advanced
Seed cleaning
After drying, rub the seed heads between hands and separate seeds from chaff and plant debris by sieving.
Seed storage conditions
Store in airtight containers in a cool, dry, and dark place.
Notes
To ensure varietal purity, especially with different Satureja species or varieties in the garden, an isolation distance of at least 5 meters from other flowering Satureja plants is advisable. This is less critical for pure species.
Woody crop details
Notes
Satureja is not a typical woody fruit or ornamental shrub, but rather a perennial herb that dies back to the ground in winter and regrows in spring. Woody growth is limited to the base of older stems.
Ecology
Biodiversity notes
While Satureja is not primarily a food source for wildlife, its flowers can attract insects, contributing to local biodiversity. However, it is not a primary target for pollinators or wildlife.
Practical notes
Satureja is robust and easy to care for. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. Regular harvesting promotes bushy growth and prevents premature flowering. Harvest before flowering for the most intense aroma.
Seasonal content
Spring
In spring, Satureja is sown outdoors. Ensure a sunny location and well-draining soil. Lightly pruning old shoots encourages new growth.
Summer
During summer, Satureja can be harvested continuously. The leaves and shoot tips have their most intense aroma then. Regular harvesting promotes bushy growth.
Autumn
In autumn, the main harvest takes place for preservation (drying, freezing). The plant prepares for overwintering.
Winter
Satureja is winter-hardy. Protect the base from severe frost if necessary. It regrows in spring.



