Dune Germander
teucrium dunense
Also known as: ["Dune Germander"]
Overview
A species of flowering plant in the family Lamiaceae, native to coastal dunes.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Teucrium |
| Botanical Name: | Teucrium dunense |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden or coastal garden in a sunny, well-drained spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Sandy, well-draining soil with some organic matter
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); 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 fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun preferred; avoid deep shade; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gravelly soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)
Ensure soil dries quickly; avoid heavy clay mixes; use a cactus or succulent soil base.
Temperature
Warm to hot conditions (65–85°F / 18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers warmth.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during spring and summer, none in winter
Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active
Environment
Warm (70–75°F / 21–24°C), high humidity, indirect light
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster rooting
Timeline
Roots in 3–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips; cut back leggy stems; remove dead or crossing branches
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/damaged growth
Tools
Pruning shears, clean knife
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead growth; shape plant evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it’s not too large to avoid waterlogging
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure pot has drainage holes
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and drainage
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water exits the pot; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency significantly during winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or browning edges in cold; stunted growth or yellowing in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root rot if soil remains wet in cold conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil dries quickly; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration if watered improperly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTeucrium dunense is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no significant health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicTeucrium dunense is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicTeucrium dunense is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Teucrium dunense suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is native to coastal dunes and thrives in such environments.
Q: Does Teucrium dunense attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How often should Teucrium dunense be watered?
A: It is drought-tolerant and requires moderate watering, especially during dry periods.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| 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
