Teucrium marum
cat thyme
Forming a neat, rounded mound of aromatic, evergreen grey-green foliage, Teucrium marum is ideal for gravel gardens, rockeries, raised beds and the front of sunny borders.
In late summer and autumn, slender upright spikes carry masses of small rosy-pink flowers that rise above the foliage, adding a soft haze of colour while attracting bees and other pollinators. The silvery leaves provide lasting interest and release a pleasant fragrance when brushed against, making it a lovely choice beside paths or seating areas.
Happy in poor, but well-drained soil and tolerant of dry conditions once established, this low-maintenance shrub is perfect for creating a relaxed, drought-friendly planting scheme with plenty of texture and seasonal appeal.
In late summer and autumn, slender upright spikes carry masses of small rosy-pink flowers that rise above the foliage, adding a soft haze of colour while attracting bees and other pollinators. The silvery leaves provide lasting interest and release a pleasant fragrance when brushed against, making it a lovely choice beside paths or seating areas.
Happy in poor, but well-drained soil and tolerant of dry conditions once established, this low-maintenance shrub is perfect for creating a relaxed, drought-friendly planting scheme with plenty of texture and seasonal appeal.
How to care for Teucrium marum:
Grow in a sheltered border with full sun or against a warm, sunny wall in well-drained neutral to alkaline soil.
To prolong flowering remove the flower spikes as soon as they start to fade. Clip in early spring and avoid excessive wet ground conditions by improving drainage and incorporating organic matter to the backfill at planting, and the surrounding area.
Apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant in spring.
To prolong flowering remove the flower spikes as soon as they start to fade. Clip in early spring and avoid excessive wet ground conditions by improving drainage and incorporating organic matter to the backfill at planting, and the surrounding area.
Apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant in spring.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
0.4m
Eventual spread:
0.4m
Position:
Full sun
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
-
Humans: Harmful if eaten
