Satureja spicigera - Creeping savory

Satureja spicigera, also known as creeping savory, belongs to the family of the lip flower (Lamiaceae). This multi -year, herbaceous to semi -woody plant is located in the mountainous regions of the Caucasus, Turkey and adjacent areas. It is estimated both because of its aromatic leaves as well as its decorative and utility function.

Morphology and appearance

Satureja spicigera is a low -growing, ground -covering half -shrub, which reaches a height of about 5 to 15 centimeters and often grows in a upholstered form. The shoots are thin, subsequently to slightly ascending and withdraw from the base with increasing age.

The leaves are winter green, narrow lanceolate to ruler and about 1 to 2 centimeters long. They are dark green, shiny and have a leathery texture. Characteristic of the species is its intense, spicy fragrance, which is created by the essential oils stored in glands.

The flowers appear between July and September and are typical of lip flower Zygomorph. They sit in the armpits of the upper leaves and form dense bogus wheels. The flower crown is small, 5 to 8 millimeters long, and from whitish to pale pink color, sometimes with purple accents. Pollers such as bees, butterflies and other insects are attracted to the flowers.

The fruits are inconspicuous clause fruits that contain small, dark brown seeds. These are used for natural reproduction and quickly spread out under favorable conditions, which makes the plant an effective ground cover.

Distribution and habitat

Satureja spicigera is widespread in mountain regions with barren, well -drained soils and dry climate. The plant prefers sunny locations and often occurs on rocky slopes, in steppes and light forests.

It is extremely dry -resistant and shows a high adaptability to extreme environmental conditions. These properties make you an ideal plant for rock gardens, roof greenery and landscapes that are shaped by dryness.

Ecological importance

Satureja spicigera is an important source of food for pollinators and plays a role in promoting biodiversity in its natural habitat. The dense, ground -covering growth shape protects the soil from erosion and contributes to stabilizing slopes.

The essential oils of the plant appear antimicrobial and are valued in natural medicine. This property may also contribute to plant health by reducing harmful microorganisms in your area.

Use and cultural importance

Satureja spicigera is used as a spice plant in Mediterranean and Caucasian cuisine. Your leaves have an intensive, spicy aroma, which is well suited for seasoning meat dishes, soups and stews. She is closely with the summer savory (Satureja hortensis) related, however, has a sharper and more complex taste profile.

In folk medicine, the plant is used as a means of digestive problems, colds and inflammation. The essential oils, especially thymol and carvacrol, are estimated due to their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.

Satureja spicigera is popular in horticulture because of its robust nature and its decorative effect. It is used as a ground cover in stone gardens and dry stone walls. Your growth form and late flowering make you a valuable design element in the autumn months.

The plant requires little care, but prefers well drained, calcareous floors and fully sunny locations. Her tolerance to dryness and poor soil conditions makes it an ideal choice for water -saving garden concepts and xeriscaping.