Botanical profile

Douglas' Savory

Latin name
Clinopodium douglasii
Common name
Douglas' Savory
Type
Tender perennial herb
Family
Lamiaceae

Douglas' savory is a perennial aromatic plant with a trailing or spreading habit, prized for its fragrant green foliage and its fresh, slightly peppery and herbaceous flavor. More flexible and less upright than traditional savory, it is ideal for pots, planters, hanging baskets, edible borders, and patio containers. Its aromatic leaves can be used to flavor sauces, vegetables, soups, marinades, bean dishes, grilled meats, and summer recipes.

Easy to grow, Douglas' savory prefers a bright location, in gentle sun or partial shade, in fertile, fresh, and well-drained soil. It appreciates regular moisture, especially in containers, to maintain tender, dense, and well-scented foliage. Its trailing habit allows it to be used as a decorative aromatic plant in edible arrangements, where it adds texture, movement, and a beautiful natural touch.

Both useful, fragrant, and very decorative, Douglas' savory is perfect for gardeners looking for an original fine herb that is easy to integrate into small spaces. Its flexible growth is particularly suitable for balconies, terraces, urban vegetable gardens, and container herb gardens. It is an excellent plant for adding a delicate flavor, a trailing texture, and a pleasant fragrance to gourmet arrangements.

Care guide

Care level
Moderate

Choosing this plant

Main benefit
Creeping aromatic foliage with a minty fragrance, ideal for herbal teas
Container, hanging basket, herb garden, herbal tea, fragrant groundcover, balcony
Container growing
Excellent in containers or well-drained hanging baskets
Seasonal care
Pinch regularly to maintain a dense habit; protect from scorching sun; bring indoors or protect in winter depending on the climate
Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 7
Exposure
Partial shade to mild sun
Watering
Regular; keep soil moist without overwatering
Humidity
Average humidity; prefers cool, well-drained soil
Fertilization
Light fertilization in spring; moderate when potted
Soil type
Fertile, light, fresh, and well-drained soil
Soil pH
Slightly acidic to neutral
Minimum temperature
-10 °F
Propagation method
Stem cuttings or division
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Summer
Flower color
White to pale lavender
Foliage color
Green
Foliage type
Persistent in mild climates
Shape
Creeping, spreading, and trailing habit
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
4 to 8 in (10 to 20 cm)
Width
45 to 60 cm (18 to 24 inches)
Growth rate
Average growth
Vegetable garden and yield

Companion planting, spacing and harvest

Companion plants
Mint, lemon balm, thyme, chives
Spacing
30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 inches)
Harvest period
Spring to Autumn Leaves
Not recommended for pets
Not recommended for pets

Pets

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.