Teucrium fruticans aka Shrubby Germander
Taxonomy
Teucrium fruticans, also known as tree germander or shrubby germander, is a species of flowering plant in the mint family Lamiaceae. It is native to the western and central Mediterranean and can grow up to 1 meter tall and 4 meters wide. This spreading evergreen shrub has arching velvety white shoots, glossy aromatic leaves, and pale blue flowers that bloom in summer. The Latin specific epithet fruticans means "shrubby" or "bushy". The 'Azureum' cultivar, with darker blue flowers, has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. Tree Germander is hardy in milder areas, where temperatures do not fall below −5 °C (23 °F), and prefers the shelter of a wall, in full sun with neutral or alkaline soil. It is also a rare houseplant that is easy to grow and needs regular watering. Tree Germander likes long-lasting, direct light and well-draining soil. Fertilizers are not necessary if the plant is repotted each time it doubles in size. Tree Germander belongs to the Teucrium genus and is native to the Western Mediterranean.
Common names
Shrubby Germander, Tree Germander, Silver GermanderHow to care for Shrubby Germander
Difficulty
With its straightforward care requirements, Shrubby Germander is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.
Water
Shrubby Germander should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Shrubby Germander loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Shrubby Germander prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Toxicity
There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.
Fertilizer
The Shrubby Germander is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Teucrium Genus
Teucrium polium Poley
Teucrium montanum Mountain Germander
Teucrium pyrenaicum Pyrenean Germander
Teucrium marum Cat Thyme
Teucrium cubense Small Coastal Germander
Teucrium parvifolium Teucrium Parvifolium
Teucrium laciniatum Lacy Germander
Teucrium chamaedrys Wall Germander
Teucrium fruticans Shrubby Germander
