Wall germander - Teucrium chamaedrys (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Wall germander

Also known as: Wild germander, Germander, Horse chive

Wall germander (Teucrium chamaedrys) is a creeping evergreen perennial that thrives in temperate areas where the temperature doesn't often dip below freezing. Wall germander is commonly grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive, aromatic foliage and its pink or purple flowers. The flowers lure in pollinators and are an excellent pollen source for honey bees.

Scientific classification

Species

Wall germander (Teucrium chamaedrys)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Green

Leaf Color

Pink, Purple

Flower Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Wall germander

Distribution of Wall germander

Distribution Map

Wall germander is naturally found in parts of Central and Southern Europe and has been introduced to various regions in Northern Europe. Additionally, wall germander is cultivated in gardens and landscapes beyond its native range due to its ornamental qualities.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Waste ground and rocky outcrops

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Toxicity

Wall germander is moderately toxic to humans; ingestion can cause gastrointestinal distress (nausea, vomiting), liver damage (jaundice, abdominal pain), and neurological symptoms (headaches, dizziness, confusion). All parts of the plant, including leaves, stems, and flowers, are hazardous. Awareness of these risks is crucial to prevent accidental poisoning.

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Quickly Identify Wall germander

Compact subshrub reaching 2 feet (60 cm) tall with a spreading habit of 2-3 feet (60-90 cm).

Deeply serrated, dark green leaves resembling miniature oak leaves, measuring 0.2 to 1 inch (0.5 to 2.5 cm).

Magenta-pink, two-lipped tubular flowers in whorls at leaf axils, forming 6-flower spikes at 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) tall.

Flowers stand above foliage on spikes in late spring to summer, providing a striking visual and aiding in identification.

Thrives in full sunlight, tolerant of various soil types, benefits from light shearing in late winter for neat appearance.

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Care Guide for Wall germander

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Wall germander thrives in Mediterranean conditions with moderate moisture and prefers well-drained, drier soils. Once established, it exhibits moderate drought tolerance. Watering should occur every 1-2 weeks, allowing soil to dry slightly. As an evergreen, wall germander retains foliage year-round, reducing water loss.

Fertilize: To ensure optimal growth for wall germander, use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, applying it once in early spring and mid-summer. Avoid over-fertilization, especially for container-grown plants, and withhold during dormant seasons to support healthy foliage and blooms.

Pruning: Wall germander features dense foliage and vibrant purple flowers, requiring pruning in late spring post-bloom. Techniques include deadheading, light trimming for shape, and cutting back one-third of older stems to improve airflow, reduce disease risk, and promote compact growth and aesthetics.

Propagation: Wall germander is a perennial shrub that prefers well-drained soil and full to partial sun. To propagate, use fresh seeds lightly pressed into seed-starting mix, maintaining consistent moisture. Germination is slow; once seedlings are robust, transplant them to their final location, allowing adequate space for growth.

Repotting: To promote healthy growth of wall germander, repot every 2-3 years in spring using a slightly larger pot for root expansion. Ensure well-drained soil, and provide regular watering and partial sunlight to meet its specific care requirements.

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Images of Wall germander

Distribution of Wall germander

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Wall germander

Care Guide for Wall germander

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