Lamiaceae
American germander
Teucrium canadense
Synonyms
Teucrium littorale
Other Common Names
common germander, wood sage
Plant Type
Herbaceous Wildflower
Life Cycle
Perennial
Typical Size
2-3 ft. tall
5 ft. wide
Tolerant of
Occasional Flooding
Inolerant of
Dry Soil
Propagation
By division
Plant Propagation Notes
Easily propagated from root divisions.
Plant Planting Notes
Provide lots of space for this species to spread.
Plants/Diseases
No significant disease or pest issues.
Wildlife Benefits
Nectar/pollen source for pollinating insects, Nectar source for hummingbirds
Leaves
Leaves opposite, ovate to lanceolate and coarsely serrated; up to 5″ long.
Flowers
The white to light lavender flowers are 1/3″ long with a large showy lower lip. Flowers are on a terminal spike 1-5″ long.
Fruit
round, coarsely pitted, and hairy seeds.
Bark
Square stems.
Toxicity
No known toxicity.
USDA Hardiness Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Light Exposure
Full Sun, Part Sun/Shade
Soil Moisture
Medium, Moist
Soil Drainage
Well-drained
Soil pH
Acidic (less than 6.0), Neutral (6.0-8.0)
Native in South Carolina?
Yes
Plant Native Habitat
Rich bottomlands, moist prairies, and marshes.
Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)
Secure (G5)
Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)
Not Listed
Distribution Notes
Common throughout South Carolina
Subspecies
Teucrium canadense var. canadense
Teucrium canadense var. hypoleucum
Teucrium canadense var. occidentale