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Teucrium botrys

Teucrium botrys · Lamiaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant teucrium botrys: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

JFMAMJJASOND Planting

ID card

Foliage
Deciduous
Flowering
July to September
Adult size
20 to 50 cm in height
Growth
Fast
Hardiness
Down to -15 °C
Origin
Mediterranean region
Soil type
Well-drained, chalky or neutral

Care

Exposure

Place botrys germander in full sun for generous flowering and a compact habit. It tolerates very sunny and hot locations, typical of rockeries or south-facing slopes.

Watering

Water moderately at planting time and during dry periods. Once established, this Mediterranean plant is very drought-tolerant. Avoid excess moisture, especially in winter, which could promote root rot.

Soil

Prefer well-drained, light and chalky soil. Improve heavy soils with sand or gravel. Good drainage is crucial to prevent root asphyxia.

Pruning and maintenance

Cut back lightly after flowering to encourage dense branching and maintain a compact habit. Remove dead stems in early spring. Severe winter pruning can weaken the plant.

Fertilizing

A moderate application of fertilizer in spring is sufficient. This plant doesn't like excess nutrition, which can reduce its hardiness. Avoid nitrogen-rich fertilizers.

Diseases and pests

Generally hardy, botrys germander mainly fears stagnant moisture which can cause rot. In overly humid conditions, fungal spots may appear on the foliage. Maintain good air circulation around the plant.

Did you know?

Botrys germander has been used since antiquity in Mediterranean herbalism for its reputed therapeutic properties. Its name "botrys" comes from the Greek "botrys", which means "cluster", referring to the characteristic arrangement of its small pink or purple flowers in dense clusters on the stems.

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.