Satureja douglasii

Sunset

Zones 4-9, 14-24

Full, Partial

Ample, Moderate, Minimal

Yerba Buena
Lamiaceae (Labiatae)
Herbs, Perennials

SATUREJA

These annual and perennial plants are grown as herbal remedies and for culinary use.

Satureja douglasii

Native from Los Angeles County in Southern California to British Columbia. Plant grows to 6 in. high, spreading to 3 ft. wide by slender stems that root as they grow. Roundish, scallop-edged, 1-in. leaves have strong minty scent. Small white or lavender-tinted flowers in spring and summer. Grown as a ground cover. Dried leaves make a pleasant tea, which early settlers drank to treat a variety of ailments, hence the plant’s common name (Spanish for “good herb”). Prefers part shade but tolerates full sun in cool-summer climates. Grows best in rich, moist soil but takes drought as well as boggy conditions.