Wall Germander Teucrium chamaedrys

Wall Germander is a low-growing evergreen sub-shrub and herb in the mint family that is native to Mediterranean regions.  It is said that Teucrium is derived from the Greek name Teucer, who was the first king of Troy.  The Latin word Chamaedrys refers to the foliage, which resembles an English oak.  Along with its low growing habit, this translates to 'ground oak'.

It grows 6-18 inches tall with a 1-2 foot spread. In late spring to summer, magenta pink tubular flowers grow in whorls from the leaf axils and are attractive to bees. The leaves are aromatic and shiny with scalloped edges. When dried, they are often used in potpourri.  The horizontal and ascending stems form an attractive mound.

If a neat appearance in your garden is paramount, it may be necessary to cut back your plant after flowering.  The spent flowers leave an untidy specimen.  Pruning will also allow the plant room to fill in where the flowers have been removed.  In more formal gardens, this plant is not allowed to flower.  Repeated sheering throughout the growing season will achieve the desired uniformity of the garden.  

This plant requires low watering to be at its best, insure proper drainage. 

Spreading via rhizomes, it can be a nuisance to control.  But that spreading habit can be useful as an erosion control method.  

Grow this herb in well-drained soils in full sun. It tolerates poor soils but not wet ones. Use in an herb garden or rock garden or in groups as a ground cover, edging plant or low hedge. See the photo of it used in a knot garden.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No serious issues, but mildew, leaf spot, mites and rust can be issues.  

Severe cold temperatures can cause the plant to die-back.  Covering during extreme cold spells can help the plant survive.