Overview
Satureja schimperi, previously known as Satureja abyssinica, is a flowering plant species belonging to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to eastern Africa, particularly Ethiopia, Eritrea, Somalia, and Sudan.
Common Names
Satureja schimperi is commonly known as Ethiopian savory, Abyssinian savory, and Somali shehye.
Uses
The leaves of Satureja schimperi have a pungent aroma and taste similar to oregano. They are often used as a spice in Ethiopian and Eritrean cuisine to enhance the flavor of various dishes such as stews, soups, and meat-based meals. Additionally, the plant is known for its medicinal properties and has been traditionally used to treat respiratory problems, digestive issues, and skin infections.
Appearance
Satureja schimperi is a small perennial herb that grows to a height of 20 cm. It has branching stems with small, oval-shaped leaves that are around 15 mm long. The flowers of the plant are pink or purple and bloom during the summer season. The plant prefers dry and rocky habitats and thrives in direct sunlight.
Light Requirements
Satureja schimperi (Vatke) Cufod. prefers full sun exposure to partial shade, with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. In areas with extreme heat, it may benefit from some afternoon shade to prevent sun damage.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm temperatures between 20-25°C (68-77°F) during the day and 10-15°C (50-59°F) at night. It can tolerate mild frost, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below 0°C (32°F) can damage the plant.
Soil Requirements
Satureja schimperi (Vatke) Cufod. prefers well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. Sandy loam or loamy soils are ideal for this plant, as they provide good drainage while retaining some moisture. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soils.
Cultivation methods for Satureja schimperi (Vatke) Cufod.
Satureja schimperi (Vatke) Cufod., also known as Ethiopian savory, grows best in well-drained soils rich in organic matter. It thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions and requires temperatures between 20-30°C to grow optimally. Propagation can be done through seeds or stem cuttings. For seeds, plant them in well-prepared soil in early spring and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Keep them moist and warm until germination occurs, which typically takes two weeks.
Watering needs for Satureja schimperi (Vatke) Cufod.
Proper watering is a crucial aspect of Satureja schimperi (Vatke) Cufod. care. Water the plant regularly, especially in the growing season when it actively produces foliage and blooms. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged and must be allowed to dry up partly before the next watering. Reduce watering in winter when the plant enters its dormant period.
Fertilization for Satureja schimperi (Vatke) Cufod.
Fertilizing Satureja schimperi (Vatke) Cufod. plants is essential for their growth and productivity. Apply a slow-release granular fertilizer to the soil during the growing season, following the manufacturer's instructions. Alternatively, use a water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the winter season, when its growth slows down.
Pruning for Satureja schimperi (Vatke) Cufod.
Pruning is essential to maintain the size and shape of the Satureja schimperi (Vatke) Cufod. plant. Prune the plant in the early spring before new growth begins to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased stems and leaves. Regular pruning during the growing season helps to promote bushier growth and enhance the plant's appearance. Avoid pruning the plant during winter.
Propagation of Satureja schimperi (Vatke) Cufod.
Satureja schimperi (Vatke) Cufod. is propagated by three primary methods, namely:
1. Seed propagation
Satureja schimperi (Vatke) Cufod. can be propagated by seeds. The seeds are small, and it is essential to use a fine-textured medium for planting. The medium can be a combination of peat, perlite, and vermiculite. The seeds need to be sown at a depth of 1-2 mm and kept moist. Germination usually takes 7-14 days, and the seedlings can be transplanted to individual pots when they have 2-4 leaves.
2. Cuttings propagation
Satureja schimperi (Vatke) Cufod. cuttings can be taken from the plant during the active growth phase. The cuttings need to be 8-10 cm long and have at least 2-3 nodes. The leaves at the bottom should be removed, and the cuttings can be dipped in rooting hormone powder. The cuttings should be planted in a mixture of peat and perlite or sand. The cuttings need to be kept moist and placed in a warm and bright location. The roots will develop in 4-6 weeks, and the cuttings can be transplanted to individual pots.
3. Division propagation
The division of Satureja schimperi (Vatke) Cufod. clumps can be done during the active growth phase. The clumps can be carefully dug up and separated into smaller clumps, ensuring that each clump has at least one crown and several roots. The smaller clumps can be potted in a mixture of peat and perlite or sand and kept moist. The new plants should be placed in a warm and bright location and regularly watered until they are established.
The propagation of Satureja schimperi (Vatke) Cufod. is relatively easy and can be accomplished by choosing any of the three methods, depending on what is most suitable for the grower.
Disease and Pest Management for Satureja schimperi
Satureja schimperi is a herbaceous plant species that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. The plant commonly grows in rocky and dry areas found in Eastern Africa. Like any other plant species, Satureja schimperi is susceptible to diseases and pests. Here's a look at some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Fungal diseases: Some of the common fungal diseases that might infect Satureja schimperi plants include powdery mildew, Botrytis blight, and root rot. To control powdery mildew, it's recommended that you maintain proper air circulation and avoid overhead irrigation. In case of Botrytis blight, cut back any diseased or dead plant parts. Also, avoid overhead watering and staking the plants to reduce moisture accumulation. Root rot, on the other hand, can be prevented by avoiding overwatering and promoting proper drainage.
Bacterial wilt: Bacterial wilt can cause wilting and eventual death in infected plants. To control the disease, it's recommended that you avoid overwatering and over-fertilization. Additionally, it's advisable to only use disease-free seeds or transplants. Crop rotation can also help prevent the buildup of bacteria in the soil.
Pests
Spider mites: Spider mites are common pests that suck on plant sap, causing yellowing and deformation of leaves. To manage the pest, you can use insecticidal soap or spray the plants with a strong jet of water to knock them off. Additionally, increasing humidity levels around the plants can help deter the pests.
Thrips: Thrips are tiny insects that damage the leaves and stems of Satureja schimperi plants. To control the pest, you can introduce natural predators such as lady beetles or parasitic wasps. Additionally, maintaining proper hygiene and removing any weeds around the plant can help control the spread of the pest.
Cutworms: Cutworms are pests that feed on the stems of young Satureja schimperi plants leading to wilting. To control cutworms, it's recommended that you install barriers like collars around the stems of the plant. Additionally, using insecticides like Bacillus thuringiensis and spinosad can also help control the pest.
By following these prevention and management practices, you can keep your Satureja schimperi plants healthy and ensure maximum production. It's important to monitor the plants regularly to detect any diseases or pests and take necessary control measures early.
