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Description
Teucrium Dunense, also known as the Dun Teucrium, is a species of flowering plant in the family Lamiaceae. It is a perennial shrub that is native to the Mediterranean region, specifically in the dunes of the coasts of Morocco, Spain, and Portugal. The plant is known for its unique growth habit, as it forms a dense groundcover with small, silvery-gray leaves and spikes of pale lavender flowers that bloom in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Teucrium |
Appearance
Teucrium Dunense is a small shrub that grows up to 30 centimeters in height and spreads outwards to form a dense mat. It has small, oval-shaped leaves that are silvery-gray in color and covered in soft, fine hairs. The leaves grow in opposite pairs along the stems and are around 1-2 centimeters long. In the summer, the plant produces spikes of pale lavender flowers that are around 1-2 centimeters long and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
To care for Teucrium Dunense, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. The plant prefers sandy or loamy soils that are low in nutrients, and it is important to avoid overwatering as the plant is drought-tolerant. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help to promote growth. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Teucrium Dunense is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil. Other potential pests include spider mites and scale insects, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Teucrium Dunense is native to the Mediterranean region and is typically found growing in the dunes of coastal areas in Morocco, Spain, and Portugal. The plant is adapted to the sandy, nutrient-poor soils of these regions and is well-suited to growing in dry, sunny locations.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Teucrium Dunense be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Teucrium Dunense can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s spreading growth habit.
Q: Does Teucrium Dunense require pruning?
A: Teucrium Dunense does not require regular pruning, but it can be trimmed back in the spring to promote bushier growth.
Q: Is Teucrium Dunense deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Teucrium Dunense is deer-resistant due to its silvery-gray leaves and strong fragrance.
Q: Can Teucrium Dunense be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Teucrium Dunense can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken in the spring or early summer.
Related Plants
- Teucrium Chamaedrys
- Teucrium Fruticans
- Teucrium Marum
- Teucrium Scorodonia
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Teucrium dunense. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c714
- RHS. (n.d.). Teucrium dunense. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/308969/i-Teucrium-dunense-i/Details
- University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. (n.d.). Teucrium dunense. Retrieved from http://ucanr.edu/sites/ucmgnevada/files/27728.pdf
