Tree germander (Teucrium fruticans)

Tree germander

Features and Characteristics

Teucrium fruticans, commonly called tree germander or bush germander, is a medium sized evergreen shrub native to southern Europe. The fragrant, ovate leaves are grey-green in color and reach around 0.75″ long. The twigs and undersides of the foliage are covered in fine, velvety white hairs. Small blue flowers (around 1″ long) bloom seasonally at the ends of the branches. Mature plants will reach up to 7′ wide with an equal spread and take on a mounding habit.

Genus name comes from the Greek name, possibly named for Teucer, first king of Troy.

The specific epithet fruticans means “shrubby”, in reference to this plant’s growth habit.

Care and Maintenance

Best grown in medium to dry, loose, neutral to slightly alkaline, well-drained soils in full sun. Tolerant of shallow, rocky soils with low fertility, wind, heat, and salt spray. Tolerates some drought once established. Hardy in zones 8-10. Moderate to severe stem dieback is possible if planted in the colder end of its hardiness range. Site in a protected location to help prevent this. Its habit can be somewhat leggy, but takes well to pruning.

Tree germander (Teucrium fruticans) Requirements

Hardiness zone	8 - 10
Sun light	Full sun
Water	Dry to medium
Maintenance	Low

Common Problems

No major pest or disease issues. Deer tend to avoid this plant.

Uses

Rock gardens, seaside gardens xeriscaping, formal or informal border backdrops, hillside gardens. Suitable for use in containers. Takes well to pruning and shearing and can be used as a hedge.

Tree germander (Teucrium fruticans) Details

Common name	Tree germander
Botanical name	Teucrium fruticans
Plant type	Broadleaf evergreen
Family	Lamiaceae
Hardiness zone	8 - 10
Water	Dry to medium
Maintenance	Low
Flower color	Blue
Flowering period	Seasonal bloomer
Height	4 - 7 ft.
Width	4 - 7 ft.