Mountain germander
Teucrium montanum · Lamiaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant mountain germander: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Flowering
- May to July, pink to red flowers
- Mature size
- 20-40 cm tall, compact habit
- Growth
- Slow to moderate
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, -15°C and below
- Origin
- Mountainous regions of Southern Europe
- Soil type
- Well-draining, stony, poor to average
Care
Light exposure
Plant mountain germander in full sun for optimal flowering and better disease resistance. It also tolerates partial shade, but vigor and flowering will be reduced. Avoid dense shade areas where it becomes leggy.
Watering
Once established, this plant is very drought-tolerant and requires only moderate watering. Water after planting to encourage rooting, then gradually reduce watering. During very dry summers, a light weekly watering can be beneficial.
Soil
Mountain germander prefers well-draining, gravelly or sandy soils. Improve heavy soil with gravel or sand at planting. It fears waterlogged soil and impermeable clay, particularly in winter.
Pruning
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain compact growth and encourage branching. Light spring pruning rejuvenates the plant. Avoid severe pruning which can weaken it.
Fertilizer
No fertilizer is necessary for this hardy plant accustomed to poor soils. Excess nutrients promote excessive growth at the expense of flowering. Soil enrichment at planting is more than sufficient.
Diseases and pests
Mountain germander is very disease-resistant thanks to its robust nature. Poor drainage or chronic moisture can occasionally cause root rot. Check soil drainage and space out watering if problems occur.
Did you know?
Mountain germander is a classic feature in alpine gardens and rock gardens since the 19th century. Its name 'Teucrium' comes from Greek mythology and is said to have been given as tribute to a king of Troy. In the mountains, it grows naturally on rocky and stony slopes, forming colorful mats highly prized by bees and butterflies.
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.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.