Water germander (Teucrium scordium)
Care, watering, light and tips for Water germander on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Lamiaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 4 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
About Water germander
Teucrium scordium, commonly known as "water germander" or "wood sage," is a perennial herbaceous plant from the Lamiaceae family, emitting a distinctive garlic-like scent when rubbed. Its small purple or pink flowers, arranged in spikes, make it attractive for wetland gardens or pond edges, where its dense foliage can form an interesting ground cover.
Native range
Europe and parts of Western Asia
Care tips
It thrives in moist to very moist soils and full sun to partial shade, making it ideal for water margins or poorly drained areas. Ensure consistent watering to keep the substrate constantly damp, especially in warm climates. A substrate rich in organic matter will benefit it, and avoid prolonged drought, as this is its main weakness.
How to save a dying Water germander
- Warning signs
- Wilting, yellowing, or dark-spotted leaves. Stunted or weak growth. Soft, dark roots.
- First aid
- Check watering; often due to over or under-watering. Ensure good drainage and gentle sunlight. Consider repotting if substrate is compacted.
- What kills it
- Constant waterlogging of the substrate. Also, prolonged extreme dryness and lack of light.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. It's quite resilient if you correct growing conditions in time.