Satureja thymbra

Common name(s): pink savory, savory of Crete

Description: perennial; an evergreen subshrub with aromatic leaves and pink flower spikes in summer. Locally known as "wild thyme" in much of its native range and essential ingredient in the Middle Eastern spice blend, za'atar. Requires gritty, fast-draining soil to thrive.

Height: to 1 ft. Spread: to 2 ft.

Position: full sun and lean, well-draining soil

Uses: culinary- bean dishes, soups, meats, etc., medicine, to attract pollinators

Winter Hardiness: to 0 F and below

Drought: adapted to 5 months of summer drought

Distribution: Cyprus, East Aegean Is., Greece, Crete, Lebanon, Syria, Libya, Sardinia, Turkey