Teucrium marum aka Cat Thyme
Taxonomy ID: 7241
Teucrium marum, also known as cat thyme or kitty crack, is a species of germander native to Spain and the Western Mediterranean. This evergreen subshrub grows to around 40cm tall and wide, forming a compact and bushy appearance. Its small, oval leaves are grey-green with downy undersides, resembling thyme but with a distinct, musty scent. Fragrant pink flowers bloom on spikes up to 12cm long during late summer and autumn. As a houseplant, cat thyme is quite rare and requires regular watering to thrive. It thrives best in direct light, positioned within 1 foot of a window. Well-draining soil is preferred, and if repotted each time it doubles in size, additional fertilizers may not be necessary.
Common names
Cat ThymeMore information about Cat Thyme
What are the water needs for Cat Thyme
Cat Thyme should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Cat Thyme
Cat Thyme 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.
What is the sunlight requirement for Cat Thyme
Cat Thyme requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Cat Thyme is always in the right place to thrive.
How to fertilize Cat Thyme
The Cat Thyme 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.
Is Cat Thyme toxic to humans/pets?
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.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Teucrium Genus
Teucrium parvifolium Teucrium Parvifolium
Teucrium lucidum Indian Lucid
Teucrium flavum Yellow Germander
Teucrium montanum Mountain Germander
Teucrium pyrenaicum Pyrenean Germander
Teucrium polium Poley
Teucrium canadense Wild Germander
Teucrium Germander
Teucrium scordium Water Germander
