Yellow Germander
teucrium pseudochamaepitys
Also known as: ["Wood Sage","False Cypress Spurge"]
Overview
A low-growing, mat-forming perennial herb with small, yellow flowers and aromatic foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Teucrium |
| Botanical Name: | Teucrium pseudochamaepitys |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, sunny borders, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is essential; avoid deep shade; rotate pot for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for nutrients.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C). Hardy to USDA zones 5–9.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation in heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilization; stop in late fall to allow dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without saturating the soil. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; leaf scorch or wilting in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn yellow or brown; growth slows or halts; risk of root damage in freezing conditions.
Solution: Provide winter protection in colder zones; mulch around roots; move potted plants indoors if temperatures drop below freezing.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow; soil may dry out too quickly.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTeucrium pseudochamaepitys is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented adverse effects associated with ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicTeucrium pseudochamaepitys is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects associated with ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicTeucrium pseudochamaepitys is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested in typical quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Teucrium pseudochamaepitys suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, its mat-forming habit and drought tolerance make it an excellent choice for rock gardens.
Q: Does this plant attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its yellow flowers are highly attractive to bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should it be watered?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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