Bush Germander

Plant Type: evergreen shrub
Plant Height: 4–6 feet
Spread: 4–6 feet
Flower Color: lavender-blue
Sun Exposure: Full sun, Partial Shade

Bush Germander (Teucrium fruticans): Silvery Foliage with Soft Blue Flowers

Bush Germander is a durable, evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region, valued for its silvery-gray foliage and delicate lavender-blue flowers. With its upright, bushy habit and drought tolerance, it’s a favorite for borders, hedges, and xeriscape designs in Arizona landscapes.

Key Features of Bush Germander

• Silver Evergreen Foliage: Aromatic, silvery-gray leaves provide year-round contrast.
• Soft Blue Blooms: Small lavender-blue flowers appear intermittently from spring through fall.
• Heat & Drought Tolerant: Thrives in hot, sunny climates with minimal water once established.
• Low Maintenance: Naturally rounded habit requires little shaping.

Growing and Care Tips

Bush Germander is tough, resilient, and thrives with minimal care.

Soil: Prefers well-draining sandy or rocky soils; amend clay to improve drainage.
Water: Moderate water during establishment; once mature, water every 2–3 weeks in summer.
Fertilizer: Not typically needed; apply a balanced fertilizer in spring if growth slows.
Pruning: Light pruning after flowering helps maintain shape and density.

Landscaping Uses

• Accent Plant: Silvery foliage adds contrast to green or brightly colored plants.
• Borders & Hedges: Works beautifully as a low to medium-height hedge.
• Mass Plantings: Excellent in groups for color and texture.
• Pollinator Gardens: Flowers attract bees and butterflies.

Summary

Bush Germander combines striking silvery foliage, soft seasonal blooms, and drought tolerance, making it an excellent choice for Arizona gardens. Its year-round appeal and low water needs fit seamlessly into Mediterranean and xeriscape designs.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Bush Germander

Planting Guide:

Location: Full sun preferred; tolerates partial shade.
Soil: Well-draining sandy or rocky soils.
Spacing: Space 4–6 feet apart for hedges or mass planting.
Planting Depth: Keep crown level with surrounding soil.
Support: Not required—naturally forms a dense shrub.

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly after planting.
• Frequency: Every 3–4 days for the first 2–3 weeks.
• Watering Amount: Enough to soak soil 8–10 inches deep.

When is the Plant Established?

• Typically after 2–3 months of consistent watering.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Deep water every 2–3 weeks.
• Winter: Water every 4–6 weeks if dry.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

Placement of Emitters: Place 1–2 emitters 12–18 inches from base.
Flow Rate: 1 gallon per hour.
Number of Emitters: One for younger plants; two for mature shrubs.
Adjusting Frequency: Increase during prolonged heat; reduce in cooler months.

General Watering Tips for Bush Germander:

• Soil Check: Allow the top 3 inches of soil to dry before watering again.
• Avoid Overwatering: This Mediterranean native prefers dry intervals.
• Mulch: Apply gravel mulch to conserve moisture and highlight silvery foliage.