Teucrium polium
Teucrium polium · Lamiaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant teucrium polium: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Plant type
- Perennial herb
- Foliage
- Evergreen, gray-white
- Flowering
- July to September
- Adult size
- 20 to 40 cm in height
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, down to -15 °C
- Origin
- Mediterranean basin and Asia Minor
- Preferred soil
- Well-drained, calcareous, poor to medium
Care
Light exposure
Install the gray-white germander in full sun, ideally with a minimum of 6 hours per day. It tolerates partially shaded locations but flowers less abundantly. Choose a well-ventilated spot to prevent stagnant moisture.
Soil and drainage
Plant in well-drained, poor to medium soil, preferably calcareous. Avoid heavy or constantly moist soils that promote root rot. Adding sand or gravel improves drainage in clay soils.
Watering
Water moderately after planting to promote establishment. Once established, germander tolerates drought well. During active growth, keep the soil slightly moist but never waterlogged. Reduce watering considerably in winter.
Pruning and maintenance
Cut back the plant lightly after flowering to encourage better branching and a compact form. In late winter or early spring, perform more substantial pruning to remove dead or damaged parts. Regular removal of dead leaves maintains foliage density.
Fertilizing
Gray-white germander does not require regular fertilization, especially in calcareous soil. A modest compost application in spring is generally sufficient. Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizers that promote foliage growth at the expense of flowering.
Diseases and pests
This plant is rarely affected by diseases if it benefits from good drainage and proper air circulation. Excessive moisture can cause rot. Occasionally watch for spider mites in dry conditions. No major pests affect it durably.
Did you know?
The gray-white germander was once used in traditional medicine in the Mediterranean basin, notably by healers for its supposed digestive and anti-inflammatory properties. Its velvety gray-white foliage, very characteristic, inspired its scientific name: Teucrium comes from the mythical king Teucer, while 'polium' means 'gray hair' in Greek, evoking the plant's hairiness.
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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- SageSalvia officinalis
- BugleAjuga reptans
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.