Teucrium marum
Care, watering, light and tips for Teucrium marum on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Lamiaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 10 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
About Teucrium marum
Teucrium marum, also known as Cat Thyme or Marum Germander, is an aromatic evergreen shrub characterized by its greyish foliage and small, purplish flowers. Its compact, creeping habit makes it an excellent choice for rockeries, path edges, or as a groundcover in Mediterranean gardens. Its thyme-like fragrance adds a distinctive touch to the landscape.
Native range
Mediterranean region (southern Europe and northern Africa)
Care tips
This plant thrives in full sun and requires well-drained, sandy or stony soil, as it is very susceptible to waterlogging. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings, and reduced in winter. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Lightly prune after flowering to maintain its compact shape and encourage new growth.
How to save a dying Teucrium marum
- Warning signs
- Wilting, yellowing, or browning leaves that drop easily.
- First aid
- Check drainage and soil moisture. If dry, water deeply. If waterlogged, repot into dry, aerated soil.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and poor drainage, leading to root rot. Also tolerates dense shade poorly.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots are not completely rotted and watering issues are corrected promptly.