Teucrium canadense aka Wild Germander

Teucrium canadense is a perennial, a plant that lives for years. It belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. Common names include American germander and Canada germander. Another name is American wood sage. Its native range runs from Canada to northern Mexico. It also includes Honduras and Cuba. In eastern and central North America, it grows in damp places. These include woods, thickets, marshes, and land beside streams. It is not native to Britain or Ireland.

Plants form clumps with woody bases and spreading rhizomes. These stems grow below ground and help form large patches. Garden plants reach about 1.5–3 feet [0.46–0.91 metres] tall. Their spread can reach 3 feet [0.91 metres]. Each plant tends to have one stout stem that stands upright. The stem is hollow, hairy, and square. It often has no branches. Leaves grow in opposite pairs along its length. This gives the plant a clear, upright shape among other plants. In good conditions, its spread needs more thought than its height.

Purplish-pink flowers grow in a spike at the stem tip. Bloom lasts from June to September, for a long summer show. The flower spikes rise above the paired leaves. The blooms are showy, but gardeners grow it for its leaves too. It suits herb gardens and gardens of native plants. Pond edges and stream banks offer other uses. It forms patches that suit areas left to grow more freely. Leave room for the patch to spread beyond its first clump.

Grow American germander in moist, rich soil that drains well. Full sun suits it best, though it accepts part shade. It can also cope with some poor drainage. Avoid dry soil, which does not meet its growing needs. Its listed range for cold hardiness covers USDA zones 4–9. Seed offers an easy way to raise new plants. You can also take cuttings or split clumps to grow more. Both rhizomes and seedlings from fallen seed can extend a patch. In good growing conditions, it can spread with force.

Serious pest and disease problems are not usual on the whole. Mildew, leaf spot, and rust can still affect plants. Mites may also cause trouble. Its need for space makes the choice of site matter. A small bed packed with plants may not suit its spread. The supplied sources give no food or toxicity guidance for this species. Its use in herb gardens does not prove it is safe to eat.