Garden Germander

teucrium botrys

Also known as: ["Botrys Germander","Creeping Germander"]

Family: Lamiaceae Genus: Teucrium Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A low-growing, mat-forming perennial herb with small, aromatic leaves and small pinkish-purple flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","medicinal use"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Lamiaceae
Genus: Teucrium
Botanical Name: Teucrium botrys

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, sunny borders, or dry, open meadows
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate pruning to shape the plant and remove up to one-third of old growth.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust for intense summer heat by providing partial afternoon shade.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade. Protect from harsh midday sun in summer to prevent scorching. Outdoor placement is ideal for full sun exposure.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor drainage or incorrect soil conditions.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Full sun lover; protect from intense summer heat; acclimate gradually.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure excellent drainage.

Soil

well-drained, sandy or rocky loam

pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).

Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with sand or perlite if needed.

Temperature

Prefers warm to hot temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.

Protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Use half-strength fertilizer; fertilize monthly in growing season; skip winter feeding.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings are the most common method for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in moist medium.
  5. Keep humid and warm.

Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with bright indirect light and consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of perlite and peat moss.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots typically develop in 3–4 weeks; plants may take 2–3 months to establish.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; keep warm and bright.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut back stems to just above a leaf node or bud. Remove dead or crossing branches.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution (e.g., rubbing alcohol).

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune before new growth; remove dead wood; shape the plant.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before the growing season begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.

Method

Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Teucrium botrys prefers slightly crowded roots but benefits from fresh soil.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil; trim roots if needed; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce frequency in winter.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone until soil is moist but not waterlogged. Ensure excess water drains away completely. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to target the root zone precisely.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; leaf scorch or dehydration in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf drop or damage if below 20°F (-6°C).

Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration, especially with inadequate water.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade in intense heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize monthly; stop in winter.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply monthly during the growing season (spring to early fall). Avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Teucrium botrys may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or certain viral infections, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant vigor.

Wilting in Teucrium botrys can result from water stress, root damage, or pathogenic infections, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Teucrium botrys may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Teucrium botrys is often caused by excessive moisture or fungal pathogens, leading to tissue decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Teucrium botrys. The plant is not highly toxic to felines, but ingestion should be prevented to avoid discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing Teucrium botrys. If ingestion is suspected, observe the cat for symptoms and seek veterinary advice if necessary.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Teucrium botrys can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic, but consumption should be avoided to prevent discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from Teucrium botrys. If ingestion occurs, monitor the animal for symptoms and contact a veterinarian if they persist.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Teucrium botrys contains certain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid consuming Teucrium botrys in large amounts. Use only in moderation if used for culinary purposes, and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Teucrium botrys safe for pets?

A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: How often should I water Teucrium botrys?

A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.

Q: Does Teucrium botrys attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Lamiaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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