Teucrium chamaedrys

Botanical Name: Teucrium chamaedrys
Common Name: wall germander
Family Name: Lamiaceae
Distribution/Origin: Europe(Mediterranean), N. Africa, Middle East, Iran

Description: Wall germander is a shrubby, woody-based, clump-forming, broad leaf evergreen which is grown ornamentally for its attractive, aromatic, evergreen foliage. 3/4", oval, scalloped, shiny dark green leaves on numerous ascending and spreading stems which collectively form a mound of foliage 12-15" tall. Leaves resemble miniature oak leaves (chamaedrys means "ground oak" in reference to the leaf shape and ground cover habit). Whorls of two lipped, tubular, pink to purple *(less frequently white) flowers (typical mint family) appear in terminal clusters in late spring to early summer. Leaves were formerly used in a variety of medicinal treatments. Best grown in average, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun. Tolerates poor soils as long as drainage is good. Pinch (or shear if leggy) stems after flowering to promote bushy, compact growth. Appreciates a sheltered location and winter protection in USDA Zone 5 where it is evergreen but not reliably winter hardy and may suffer die back in harsh winters.

Landscape use:  Edging plant or low clipped hedge *(somewhat resembling boxwood), Harsh winters may kill some plants leaving gaps. Mass as a small scale ground cover or group. Rock gardens or herb gardens. Commonly planted in old world knot and herbal gardens.

Notes: Broadleaf evergreen, No serious insect or disease problems, Susceptible to mildew, leaf spot, rust and mites, Cold temperature injury, die-back to the ground or death may occur in harsh winters