Bush Germander
teucrium fruticans
Also known as: ["French Germander","Sage Germander"]
Overview
A hardy evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region, valued for its aromatic foliage and blue-purple flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Teucrium |
| Botanical Name: | Teucrium fruticans |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed, hedge, or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; tolerates poor soils but thrives with good drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate pruning to shape and rejuvenate; can be cut back hard if necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily; tolerates some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight if moving from shade; protect from harsh midday sun in hot regions; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Full sun promotes dense growth; partial shade prevents leaf scorch; rotate plants for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; allow soil to dry out partially between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; amend with organic matter for fertility; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Thrives in warm to hot conditions, ideal range 60–85°F (15–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers frost-free environments.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat; adjust watering based on temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly to avoid excessive foliage growth; apply before new growth emerges; stop fertilizing in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method; softwood cuttings root easily in warm conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- 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 until roots establish.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; plants can be transplanted after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use fresh, healthy cuttings; maintain humidity to prevent drying; ensure bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown branches; best done after flowering or in late winter.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune after flowering; remove dead wood; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling 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; beneficial for maintaining vigor and growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture distribution without saturating the soil; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 1–2 weeks during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to once a month or less in fall and winter when growth slows.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is not compacted.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat; stunted growth in temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn yellow or brown; growth slows or halts; prolonged cold can damage branches or kill tender parts.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; plant in a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold conditions to prevent root rot.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow; excessive heat can stress the plant and reduce vigor.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates; water deeply to cool roots; mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during active growth; avoid fertilizing in late fall or winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Teucrium fruticans. The plant's essential oils can irritate the digestive tract, though severe toxicity is unlikely.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Teucrium fruticans can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant's compounds are not highly toxic but can cause irritation to the digestive system, resulting in temporary discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicTeucrium fruticans contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's essential oils 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 fruticans toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its fragrant flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
