Hedge Germander Teucrium × lucidrys
ABOUT
Teucrium × lucidrys, commonly known as hedge germander, is a perennial plant known for its dense, bushy appearance and aromatic nature. The foliage of hedge germander is a rich, deep green, often with a glossy texture. The leaves are small, oval to lance-shaped, and exhibit a fine texture with a serrated edge, contributing to the overall lush look of the plant. During the blooming period, hedge germander produces small, tubular flowers that are typically a rosy-purple color. These flowers are arranged in whorls that encircle the square stems, providing a striking contrast against the greenery. The blooms attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, adding to the plant's ornamental value in a garden setting. Hedge germander has a neat, compact growth habit that makes it a favorite for formal borders and hedges. Its stems are rigid and upright, adding to the structured look of the plant when pruned. The overall shape can be tailored by pruning, allowing it to fit into various landscape designs, from formal gardens to naturalistic settings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Hedge Germander, Tree Germander, Shrubby Germander
Common names
Teucrium chamaedrys var. lucidrys, Teucrium chamaedrys subsp. lucidrys
ToxicityTo humans
Hedge germander (Teucrium × lucidrys) is generally not considered highly toxic to humans. However, it does contain various compounds that, in significant quantities, could potentially cause negative effects. Ingesting large amounts of the plant might result in gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. There is also some concern about the potential hepatotoxicity of Teucrium species in general, which means they could cause liver damage if consumed in large quantities over time. Chronic use of Teucrium species has been linked to cases of hepatitis and liver failure, so caution is advised in using this plant for medicinal purposes. Always consult with a healthcare provider before using any plant medicinally.
To pets
Hedge germander (Teucrium × lucidrys) has not been widely reported to be toxic to pets. However, as with humans, the Teucrium genus contains compounds that can be harmful in high doses or with long-term use. Pets, particularly cats and dogs, should not consume this plant. If ingested in large quantities, it could potentially lead to gastrointestinal upset in pets, characterized by symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. In addition, concerns about hepatotoxicity noted in humans would extend to pets as well; therefore, there could be a risk of liver damage with chronic ingestion. Pet owners should prevent their pets from ingesting hedge germander and seek veterinary care if they suspect their pet has consumed a large amount of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1-2 feet [30-60 cm]
Spread
1-2 feet [30-60 cm]
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Low Maintenance: Teucrium × lucidrys is a hardy plant that requires minimal care once established, making it ideal for gardeners looking for low-maintenance options.
- Drought Resistance: This plant is drought-tolerant, able to survive with limited water supply after it has been established, which is beneficial in arid climates or during water restrictions.
- Attracts Pollinators: It attracts bees and other beneficial pollinators to the garden, which is important for pollinating flowers and growing fruit and vegetables.
- Ground Cover: The plant spreads easily and can provide dense ground cover, helping prevent weeds and protect soil from erosion.
- Decorative Uses: With its glossy green leaves and pink-purple flowers, Teucrium × lucidrys is often used for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscapes.
- Long Flowering Season: The hedge germander has a long flowering season, providing color and interest in the garden for an extended period.
- Edging and Borders: Its growth habit makes it suitable for creating neat edges and borders in formal garden designs.
- Herb Garden Addition: Although excluding medicinal properties, it can still serve as an aromatic and traditional herb in a culinary herb garden.
Medical Properties- Antiseptic: Teucrium × lucidrys is traditionally used for its antiseptic properties.
- Anti-inflammatory: It may have anti-inflammatory effects and be used in the treatment of inflammation.
- Astringent: The plant is considered to have astringent properties and may be used for tightening tissues.
- Diuretic: There are claims of its diuretic action which might help in increasing the flow of urine.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Landscape Edging: Hedge germander (Teucrium × lucidrys) is commonly used for creating defined borders along garden beds or pathways due to its neat, low-growing habit.
- Topiary and Sculpture: The dense foliage can be shaped into formal topiaries or whimsical garden sculptures.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not a traditional edible, the small leaves can be used to add decorative touches to dishes.
- Dye Production: The plant can be used to produce a natural dye, although this is not a common use today.
- Garden Themes: Hedge germander is suitable for historical or medieval garden recreations where historical accuracy is desired.
- Pollinator Attractant: The flowers can attract bees and butterflies, providing a beneficial service to the wider ecosystem.
- Erosion Control: Its root system can help stabilize soil on slopes and prevent erosion.
- Garden Filler: Due to its dense foliage, it can be used to fill in gaps in garden beds where other plants might struggle to grow.
- Companion Planting: Hedge germander can be planted alongside roses and vegetables to help deter certain pests.
- Photography Subject: It can be used by photographers as a subject or backdrop due to its aesthetic foliage and flowers.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Hedge Germander is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Hedge Germander is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Endurance: Teucrium × lucidrys, commonly known as Hedge Germander, is known for its hardy and resilient nature, representing the ability to endure and thrive through difficult conditions.
- Protection: Historically used in hedges and borders, Hedge Germander symbolizes the idea of creating boundaries and offering protection from external forces.
- Healing: With its use in traditional medicine for various ailments, Hedge Germander also embodies the symbolism of healing and recovery.
WaterHedge germander, Teucrium × lucidrys, should be watered deeply but infrequently, as it prefers well-drained soil and does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. In general, allow the soil to dry out between waterings, which might mean watering once every 1 to 2 weeks, depending on local climate conditions. In terms of amount, a good rule of thumb is to provide approximately 1 gallon of water per square foot of soil every two weeks during the growing season. In winter, reduce watering to once a month or less, since the plant's water needs decrease significantly during dormancy.
LightHedge germander thrives best in full sun, meaning it requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. The best spot for this plant would be an area where it receives ample sunlight throughout the day, without being shaded by larger plants or structures. Partial shade is tolerated but may result in a less dense growth habit.
TemperatureHedge germander is hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures, making it a versatile plant in many garden settings. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 10 degrees Fahrenheit, though frost may damage the leaves. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, which allows for vigorous growth without stress.
PruningPrune hedge germander to maintain its shape and encourage denser foliage. The best time for pruning is in the early spring, after the last frost but before new growth begins. Trim back up to one-third of the plant's height, and snip off any dead or damaged wood. Pruning can be done annually to keep the plant looking tidy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilHedge germander thrives in well-draining soil with a pH ranging from 6.5 to 7.5. A good mix would be equal parts of loamy soil, coarse sand, and peat to facilitate drainage. Adding a bit of compost will provide nutrients.
RepottingHedge germander typically requires repotting every few years or if it becomes root-bound. It is best to repot in the spring before new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingHedge germander is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does well in average ambient humidity typical of most outdoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and moderate temps.
Outdoor
Full sun to partial shade, protect from harsh winds.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleHedge germander (Teucrium × lucidrys) starts its life cycle as a seed, which, once sown, will germinate in the right conditions of warmth and moisture, typically in spring. The seedlings develop into small shrubs with square stems and deep green, glossy, aromatic leaves, entering their vegetative growth phase. During the growing season, hedge germander experiences vegetative growth, with stems lengthening and leaves expanding, preparing for the next stage. It then enters the reproductive phase, usually in mid to late summer, where it produces small pink to purple flowers that are attractive to bees and butterflies, ensuring pollination. After pollination, the flowers develop into small nutlets that contain seeds, thus completing the reproductive cycle. As a perennial, hedge germander will continue this cycle for several years, with the plant either dying back to the ground during winter in colder climates or remaining evergreen in milder regions, before resuming growth the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
The most popular method of propagation for Teucrium × lucidrys, commonly known as hedge germander, is by semi-ripe cuttings in summer. To propagate, you should select a healthy, non-flowering shoot and cut a 4 to 6-inch (10 to 15 cm) length from the parent plant. The lower leaves are stripped off, and the cut end can be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth. This cutting is then inserted into a well-draining potting mix, ensuring several nodes are buried where roots can form. The pot should be placed in a warm, shaded area and kept moist. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be gradually acclimatized to more sunlight before eventually being planted out.
