shrub

Tree Germander

The Story

Plant Bio

Teucrium fruticans, known as tree germander, is an upright to sprawling evergreen shrub native to the western and central Mediterranean region. It features square, white-tomentose stems carrying opposite, ovate leaves that are dark olive-green above and densely felted with silvery-white hairs underneath.

The species is highly valued in dry climates for its contrasting bi-colored foliage and pale blue to violet-blue flowers that lack an upper lip. It thrives in coastal exposures and nutrient-poor soils where other shrubs struggle with wind and salt spray.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round structural interest with its striking silvery-white stems and contrasting dark green leaves, accented by pale blue flowers.

Highly resistant to deer and rabbit browsing, and tolerates strong, salty coastal winds without foliage burn.

Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insect pollinators to its nectar-rich blossoms.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

83"

Width

94"

Light

Full Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Low

Humidity

Low to Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Mediterranean

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Spring – Autumn

In flower about 9 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun with exceptional drainage, as waterlogged soil causes rapid root decline.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and set the plant at the same depth it sat in the container.
Water deeply to settle the soil, then withhold regular watering once the root system establishes.
Apply a light annual topdressing of compost or low-rate balanced fertilizer in spring if growth is sluggish.

Pro Tip

Prune lightly once or twice a year immediately after flowering to maintain a dense habit; cutting deep into old, leafless brown wood results in bare patches that fail to bud back.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Grow in full sun to maximize the silver coloration of the foliage.
Ensure the soil is highly permeable, incorporating sand or grit if planting in heavier soils.
Prune the outer canopy after flowering to prevent the center from becoming woody and sparse.

Don't

Do not overwater or plant in low-lying areas where water collects.
Do not cut back into old, bare wood, as it lacks adventitious buds to regenerate.
Do not shear into tight, formal geometric shapes which can trap humidity and cause dieback.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Propagate
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Drought-tolerant hedgingMediterranean gardensCoastal windbreaksSlopes and erosion controlMixed shrub borders

Companion Plants

Lavandula angustifolia Rosmarinus officinalis Salvia leucantha Cistus purpureus

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Tree Germander questions

What zones can Tree Germander grow in?

Tree Germander is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Tree Germander deer resistant?

Yes — Tree Germander is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Tree Germander bloom?

Tree Germander typically blooms in spring through autumn. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Tree Germander need full sun?

Tree Germander does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Tree Germander drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Tree Germander handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.