Most herbs are best harvested right before they bloom because that’s when their essential oils and flavors are at their peak. Summer and winter savory are no exception! If you pick them before the flowers pop, you’ll get a really punchy, spicy flavor. Once they start blooming, the taste mellows out a bit. So, depending on how bold you want your seasoning to be, you can definitely keep harvesting even while the plant is in full bloom.
The Blooms
Savory produces tiny, delicate flowers that are actually quite pretty. Summer savory typically blooms from June through September, while winter savory (the perennial kind) stays in bloom a bit longer, from July into October. Depending on the variety you’re growing, you’ll see little blossoms in white, pink, or even light purple. While some herbs lose their culinary value once they flower, savory is a “zero waste” herb—the flowers are totally edible and pack just as much flavor as the leaves!
Are the flowers edible?
Absolutely! Savory flowers are edible and super versatile. If you’re looking for some inspiration, try using them as:
- A peppery, edible garnish for savory dishes
- A zesty addition to fresh salads
- A colorful “confetti” mixed into homemade herb butter
- A seasoning for hearty stews and bean dishes (just like you’d use the leaves)
- Drying Savory Flowers
If you want to enjoy that summer flavor all year long, you should definitely dry some flowers for your winter pantry. To get started, cut the flowering stems and gently clean them with a soft brush. Pro tip: avoid washing them with water, as that can wash away those precious aromatic oils. Once they’re clean, pluck the flowers and leaves from the stems and dry them separately.
To dry the flowers, spread them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Preheat your oven to about 100°F (40°C) and place the tray on the middle rack. Keep the oven door cracked open slightly so moisture can escape. Keep a close eye on them so they don’t scorch! Once they are completely dry and cooled down, store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay flavorful for several months.
Beyond just tasting great, don’t forget that savory flowers have some traditional wellness benefits too. Adding the blossoms to a herbal tea can help soothe a cough, aid digestion, and even help kickstart a sluggish appetite.
