Hircine Germander
teucrium hircanicum
Also known as: ["Hircine Germander","Teucrium hircanicum"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant in the mint family, known for its aromatic foliage and small flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Teucrium |
| Botanical Name: | Teucrium hircanicum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant’s growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak summer; monitor for sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Use gritty mix; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–8; tolerates temperatures between -20°F to 90°F (-29°C to 32°C); prefers cooler conditions in summer.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from cold drafts; maintain consistent temperatures during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Fertilize sparingly; apply in spring before active growth; discontinue in late summer to avoid tender new growth.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
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: Late spring to 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
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 3–6 weeks; plants may take several months to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems to just above a leaf node or bud; thin out crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, clean cutting tools.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune at the right time; make clean cuts; remove debris after pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn yellow or brown; growth slows or halts; roots can be damaged in poorly drained soil.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from frost with a frost cloth; ensure soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; flowering may be reduced; plant may become stressed and vulnerable to pests.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose balanced fertilizer; apply at half strength; avoid foliage contact; water after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, as Teucrium hircanicum is not heavy feeder.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest Teucrium hircanicum. The plant's compounds can cause digestive upset, though severe toxicity is unlikely. Cats are generally more sensitive to plant toxins than dogs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Teucrium hircanicum can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's irritant compounds. While not typically life-threatening, ingestion may cause discomfort and should be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicTeucrium hircanicum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's essential oils and other secondary metabolites may irritate the digestive tract, leading to discomfort without posing severe systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Teucrium hircanicum toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should I water Teucrium hircanicum?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry between waterings.
Q: Does Teucrium hircanicum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its fragrant flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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