Is Summer Savory a Perennial?

Form

• Summer savory is a fast-growing annual that grows 12 to 18 inches in one growing season. At the end of the season, it produces white or pink flowers, followed by seeds. After seeding, the leaves become bitter and growth dwindles. Even in mild climates, summer savory is planted anew each spring.

Growing Conditions

• Summer savory usually produces seeds in late summer, but poor conditions sometimes encourage early flowering and seed formation. For the best flavor and growth, summer savory needs full sun, rich, well-draining soil and consistent moisture until it becomes established. Larger plants can tolerate some drought. As the plant grows, it often becomes top heavy and may benefit from staking.

Use

• Summer savory has a sweet, light flavor and makes a fine addition to summer dishes. It is often added to vinegar, flavored sauces or butters. Although it tastes best fresh, it can also be used dried during the winter months. Summer savory can be grown indoors during the winter months with the addition of grow lights. Because the seeds don't remain viable long, new seeds should be purchased annually.

Perennial Plants

• Unlike summer savory, winter savory (Satureja montana) is a perennial plant. Both have needle-like leaves, but winter savory has a sharp, pine flavor. Winter savory grows in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 through 8 and is a woody plant, reaching 2 feet tall or more.