Teucrium, commonly known as Germander, is a versatile and hardy perennial herb. With its small, aromatic leaves and spiky clusters of tubular flowers, Teucrium adds both texture and colour to your garden. These resilient plants are a great choice for borders, hedges, or herb gardens, making them a valuable addition for gardeners seeking both visual interest and utility in their outdoor spaces.
Planting Calendar
Teucrium can be planted from spring and into autumn.
Harvest In
Teucrium flowers in spring and summer.
Prepare
Silver Germander, scientifically known as Teucrium, is a great choice for hedges and topiary enthusiasts. Thriving in hot and dry locations, this coastal plant boasts small, grey/white, hairy leaves with a delightful aromatic scent. Its square stems, covered in soft fuzz, add to its appeal. During late spring to summer, Teucrium blooms with petite, pale blue flowers that are a magnet for butterflies and bees. This fast-growing shrub rapidly spreads and is remarkably tolerant to drought. Whether trimmed neatly as a shrub, used for low shelter, or shaped into topiary, Teucrium never fails to impress. It particularly shines in coastal areas, where it withstands salt winds. Placing it against dark backgrounds enhances its visual impact, making it an excellent choice for both formal and informal hedges, as well as topiary projects. Teucrium can also be grown in containers and fits well into Mediterranean gardens.
Position
Teucrium likes a very hot sunny spot with good drainage.
Soil
When planted into the ground Teucrium prefers a free-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. To improve the organic content in your soil, break up the soil and add Kings Compost and Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together well. When growing in containers, plant into Kings Container mix. This mix contains Saturaid, which helps with moisture retention in the soil.
Pollination
Flowers are pollinated by bees.
Plant
When planting into the ground, ensure the plants is well watered then, gently tap the plant out of its pot. Dig a hole twice the depth and width of the plant’s root ball. Mix Kings Compost into your existing soil at a 50/50 ratio, add Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together. Backfill the hole with this soil, so that when planted the top of the plant’s roots sit level with the surrounding ground. Firm the soil down gently and water in well with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster. In heavier clay soils, where drainage is likely to be an issue, plant onto a raised mound and sprinkle Gypsum Clay Breaker into the bottom of the hole, this helps slowly condition the soil and help to break down the clay. When planting into containers plant into Kings Container Mix, as this has water retention crystals in it, which will help in keeping the soil moist.
Care
Watering
Watering is essential especially in the first year of planting to allow the roots to get well established. Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil, aiming to keep the soil moist during hot periods.
Feeding
For strong healthy roots and plants, apply monthly applications of Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster, from Spring through to the end of Autumn, this encourages root growth and increases the microbial activity in the soil. Monthly applications of Kings Sheep Pellets will help with soil conditioning and plant health.
Protecting
Teucrium is pretty hardy but protect from frosts and soil that s very wet.
Mulching
Mulching around plants can help conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weed growth. Mulch around the base of the plants (making sure it is not in direct contact with the trunk or base of the plant) with Living Earth More than Mulch. Replenish mulch each spring.
Spraying
Should insects be a problem spray with BioNeem.
Pruning
Regular pruning keeps it in shape, and when it becomes woody, cutting it back to ground level rejuvenates the plant.
General Care
When using sprays, chemicals or fertilisers always read the label and follow the instructions. Apply sprays in the evening to avoid harming beneficial insects.
Expert Tip
Despite its delicate appearance, Silver Germander is hardy, enduring heat, sun, and poor, dry soils. However, it detests heavy, cold, clayey environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Teucrium?
Teucrium, also known as Germander, is a hardy evergreen shrub known for its grey-green foliage and small, lavender-like flowers.
How do I plant Teucrium?
When planting into the ground, ensure the plants is well watered then, gently tap the plant out of its pot. Dig a hole twice the depth and width of the plant’s root ball. Mix Kings Compost into your existing soil at a 50/50 ratio, add Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together. Backfill the hole with this soil, so that when planted the top of the plant’s roots sit level with the surrounding ground. Firm the soil down gently and water in well with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster. In heavier clay soils, where drainage is likely to be an issue, plant onto a raised mound and sprinkle Gypsum Clay Breaker into the bottom of the hole, this helps slowly condition the soil and help to break down the clay. When planting into containers plant into Kings Container Mix, as this has water retention crystals in it, which will help in keeping the soil moist.
How often should I water Teucrium?
Watering is essential especially in the first year of planting to allow the roots to get well established. Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil, aiming to keep the soil moist during hot periods.
When is the best time to prune Teucrium?
Regular pruning keeps it in shape, and when it becomes woody, cutting it back to ground level rejuvenates the plant.
What pests or diseases affect Teucrium?
Teucrium is relatively pest-free but can occasionally be affected by spider mites or aphids. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.