Germander is a low-growing herb that is also grown as an ornamental shrub. The aromatic foliage is dark and remains evergreen in USDA zones 5-8. Teucrium chamaedrys is often used to scent potpourri blends and add greenery to dried flower arrangements. The rose-colored flowers cover this shrub from late summer through the fall, providing nectar late in the season for native pollinators. The compact size of Germander makes it a perfect edging plant for garden beds or along a driveway or a sidewalk. Traditionally, Germander is used as topiary hedging in knot gardens and other formal herb gardens. However, this shrub’s natural growth habit and free flowering make it valuable in a meadow or wildlife garden.
Like most herbs, Germander is low maintenance and provides high reward. The growth habit is compact and dense, so no pruning is required if you want to keep the shape natural and informal. Deer tend to leave highly fragrant and woody plants such as Germander alone, as do rabbits. Germander is native to the mountains of Southwest Asia, North Africa, and Europe. These regions are Mediterranean-type climates that receive all of their moisture in the fall and winter and have drought conditions in the summer months.
Germander Plant Care
Plant Germander in well-draining soil with a neutral to alkaline pH above 7.0. Germander will not tolerate heavy clay soils or highly acidic soil. Make sure the location has at least 6 hours of sun. Keep newly planted Germander watered consistently with 2-3 sessions a week for the first 1-2 years. After this herb is established, supplemental watering can be reduced. Extra watering may not be necessary for areas with summer rainfall. Although Germander is considered hardy in USDA zones 5-9, additional protection with mulch or cover may be required in zone 5 to ensure that the plants are not damaged by cold winters with little snowfall. Snowfall helps to insulate and protect plants from cold, drying winds.
Germander takes to light pruning very well. It can easily be pruned into a hedge with one or two pruning sessions a year. Prune once in late winter or early spring, as new growth emerges. The second pruning should be after blooming has finished late in the summer or very early fall. Softwood cuttings can be taken throughout the summer to propagate more Germander shrubs. Make sure to cut stems with no flower buds. These cuttings will quickly grow roots by the end of the summer and may even be ready to plant in the garden by the following summer.
Germander Plant Spacing
Although Germander grows moderately fast, it is compact and does not spread much. The mature height and spread is 12-18 inches. Space multiple plants 12 inches apart on the center to achieve a seamless, low-growing hedge.
Germander Plant Information
USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 – 8
Plant Type: Edible Plants
Light Exposure: Partial Sun to Full Sun (At Least 5 Hours of Direct Sunlight)
Mature Height: 12 – 18 Inches
Mature Spread: 12 – 18 Inches
Mature Spacing: 12 – 18 Inches
Habit: Upright
Flower Color(s): Pink
Flower Description:
Bloom Period: Mid-Summer Through Fall
Foliage Type: Evergreen
Foliage Color(s): Green
Foliage Description:
Seasonal Interest: Summer Flowering, Fall Flowering
