Teucrium fruticans aka Shrubby Germander

Teucrium fruticans is a shrub in the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is evergreen, so it keeps its leaves year-round. Its common names are tree germander and bush germander. It comes from the western and central Mediterranean region. Its native range takes in parts of southern Europe. It grows into a bushy mound. The RHS gives its garden height as 3.3–4.9 feet [1–1.5 metres]. It gives the same range for its spread. Missouri Botanical Garden reports plants about 7 feet [2.13 metres] tall and wide. The RHS says plants reach full size in five to ten years.

The small, oval leaves have a scent. Their tops range from grey-green to dark green. Each leaf grows about 0.06 feet [0.019 metres] long. Fine white hairs coat the twigs and the leaves beneath. These pale parts stand out against the dark leaf tops. Light blue flowers grow at the branch tips. Each bloom is about 0.08 feet [0.025 metres] long. The RHS says it blooms in summer. Missouri Botanical Garden describes its bloom as seasonal. The flowers and year-round leaves both add interest to borders.

Grow this shrub in full sun and soil that drains well. It suits neutral to alkaline soil: chalk, loam, or sand. Loose soil works well, even if shallow, rocky, or poor. Once rooted well, plants withstand some drought, heat, wind, and salt spray. Soil can be dry to somewhat moist. A site with shelter helps shield it from cold. A warm, sunny wall can do the same. The RHS rates it H3 for mild and coastal UK gardens. Missouri Botanical Garden lists USDA zones 8–10. At the cold end, much of the stem growth may die back.

Use tree germander in rock gardens, seaside beds, or dry landscapes. It also suits slopes, pots, and the backs of borders. It takes well to clipping, which makes it useful for hedges. Plants can grow leggy but respond well to pruning. Its mounded shape suits both formal and informal gardens. Take softwood cuttings in early summer. Take semi-ripe cuttings in midsummer. The RHS advises heat from below for both methods.

Few serious pests or diseases trouble this shrub. Deer tend to leave it alone. It needs little care when the site and conditions suit it. The RHS warns that eating it can cause harm. It also advises gloves and other gear to protect you when handling plants.