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Wood sage

Teucrium scorodonia · Lamiaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

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

JFMAMJJASOND Planting

ID card

Scientific name
Teucrium scorodonia
Family
Lamiaceae
Type
Perennial herbaceous plant
Foliage
Deciduous to semi-evergreen
Flowering
June to September, yellowish-green flowers
Mature size
30 to 60 cm tall
Hardiness
Very hardy, down to -15°C
Origin
Western and central Europe

Care

Exposure and light

Choose a location in full sun or partial shade for optimal growth and generous flowering. Wood sage tolerates bright situations well, but appreciates some afternoon shade in very hot regions.

Soil and drainage

This plant prefers well-draining soil, even poor or rocky soil, and dreads waterlogging. No need for rich soil amendments; it thrives in dry, rocky terrain typical of its natural habitat.

Watering

Water moderately during the growing season, especially in the first two years after planting. Once established, wood sage is very tolerant of drought and needs water only during prolonged dry spells.

Feeding

Fertilizer is generally unnecessary. If your soil is very poor, a light application of organic fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Avoid excessive feeding, which would harm its hardiness and aromatic qualities.

Pruning and maintenance

Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact shape and encourage dense branching. In late winter, simply remove dead or damaged stems; wood sage regrows vigorously in spring.

Diseases and pests

This robust plant is rarely troubled by pests or diseases. Powdery mildew may occasionally appear in excessively humid conditions; if so, improve air circulation and reduce foliar watering.

Did you know?

Wood sage owes its epithet 'scorodonia' to the garlic-like scent (from the Greek 'scorodon') that its leaves release when crushed. Used since antiquity in European herbalism, it appears in old folk medicine texts and remains appreciated in aromatic and medicinal plant gardens.

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.