Teucrium scordium aka Water Germander

Teucrium scordium is a challenging plant to cultivate because it requires very specific wetland conditions. This species absolutely requires alternating cycles of flooding and drying, particularly summer-autumn drying periods, to survive and reproduce successfully.

Teucrium scordium can be propagated through three methods. Seeds should be sown in spring in a cold frame with minimal soil coverage. Division of established plants works well in early spring. Half-ripe wood cuttings can be taken in mid-summer (July-August) and rooted in a frame. The plant is self-fertile, so seed production is reliable if flowering occurs.

Teucrium scordium is a creeping perennial that typically grows 15-30 cm tall, though it can reach up to 60 cm (2 feet) under optimal conditions. The plant spreads via creeping rhizomes and has weak, square, hairy stems characteristic of the mint family. It has a moderate growth rate and forms loose colonies in suitable wetland habitats.

Teucrium scordium is native to Europe and western Asia, with a range extending from Sweden in the north through France, Serbia, and Western Siberia. In Britain, it is rare and found only in scattered lowland sites in central, south-west, and eastern England, and north-west Wales. The species typically grows in wet meadows, fens, pond margins, riverbanks, and ditches, particularly on calcareous (lime-rich) soils.

Teucrium scordium produces small purplish-pink flowers that appear in whorls in the leaf axils from June to October, with peak flowering in July and August. Each flower measures approximately 0.5-1 cm in length. Like other members of the genus Teucrium, the flowers lack a true upper lip - a distinctive characteristic of germanders. The plant is self-fertile and attracts bees for pollination.

Yes, Teucrium scordium has a distinctive and penetrating garlic-like odour when the leaves are crushed, which gives rise to its alternative common name 'Garlic Germander'. The whole plant is slightly aromatic with a bitter taste. This scent is strong enough that it can reportedly taint the milk of cows that graze on the plant.

Teucrium scordium is exclusively an outdoor plant suited to USDA Hardiness Zones 4-8. It requires specific wetland conditions including bog gardens, pond margins, or areas with naturally fluctuating water levels. The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade on calcareous (lime-rich), moist to wet soils. It is not suitable for typical garden borders due to its need for wet conditions and seasonal flooding/drying cycles.

Teucrium scordium has specific seasonal requirements that mimic its natural wetland habitat. It absolutely requires alternating cycles of flooding and drying, particularly drying during summer-autumn months - this is essential for its survival and reproduction. In winter, the plant dies back to its perennial rootstock and is cold-hardy.

Teucrium scordium is pollinated by bees, which are attracted to its small pink-purple flowers from June to October. The plant is also self-fertile, meaning it can produce seeds without cross-pollination if bee visits are limited. Seeds ripen from August to September following successful pollination.

Teucrium scordium has a long history of medicinal use, though it has largely fallen out of favour in modern herbalism (PFAF rates it 1/5 for medicinal value). Traditionally, the herb was valued for its anthelmintic (anti-parasitic), antifungal, antiseptic, diaphoretic (sweat-inducing), and tonic properties. Herbalists considered it beneficial for inflammatory diseases, as a remedy for fevers, and historically it was used in the treatment of tuberculosis and as an antidote to poisons.

Beyond its historical medicinal applications, Teucrium scordium has limited other uses (PFAF rates it 1/5). The leaves can be used to produce a green dye. The plant was formerly cultivated in gardens as a medicinal herb but has largely fallen into disuse. It has some value for wildlife, particularly as a nectar source for bees.

Water Germander should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Water Germander loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Water Germander thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Lauch Gamander.

The growth of Water Germander is gradual and it doesn't necessitate any additional fertilizers. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should suffice to provide the plant with sufficient nutrition. It's important to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun's rays, not fertilizers.

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.