Wall Germander
Wall Germander (Teucrium chamaedrys)
By Agnieszka Kwiecień, Nova - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=63256840
By Robert Flogaus-Faust - Own work, CC BY 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=102909674
By Agnieszka Kwiecień, Nova - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=118803212
Scientific Name: Teucrium chamaedrys
Common Names: Wall Germander, Common Germander, Wallherb
Native to: Europe and Western Asia
Lighting Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Height: 6 to 12 inches
Width: 12 to 18 inches
Winter Look: Semi-evergreen; retains some foliage in mild climates but may die back in colder regions
Seasonal Interest: Aromatic, dark green foliage year-round; spikes of small, tubular pink to purple flowers in summer
Drought Tolerance: High; drought-tolerant once established
Soil Requirements: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil; thrives in dry, rocky, or sandy soils
pH Range: Slightly alkaline to neutral (6.0–7.5)
Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 5–9
Deer Resistance: Moderately resistant
Attracts: Pollinators, especially bees and butterflies
Potential Issues: Can become leggy or woody with age if not regularly pruned; may need to be cut back to maintain a neat appearance
Notes: Wall Germander is a low-growing evergreen often used as a ground cover, border plant, or low hedge. It is valued for its drought tolerance, aromatic foliage, and ability to thrive in poor soils. This hardy plant is ideal for sunny, dry garden areas and attracts beneficial pollinators. It also works well in rock gardens, herb gardens, or as an edging plant along pathways. Wall Germander's flowers add seasonal color, and its foliage offers year-round interest. Regular pruning can help maintain its compact form and prevent it from becoming too woody.
Years ago, I had one of these that I'm convinced is different than the one I had more recently. The previous one stayed like the perfect tiny shrub in a little one-foot ball. The recent one spread like crazy through my bed and was more like a ground cover. I will eventually figure this out and will update you when I do.