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Description
Teucrium Polium, commonly known as Felty Germander, is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family. It is native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia, and can be found growing in rocky and arid habitats. The plant has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries, particularly in traditional Moroccan medicine.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Teucrium |
Appearance
Teucrium Polium grows up to 30cm tall and has small, oval-shaped leaves that are covered in fine hairs. The leaves are a distinctive grey-green color, and the plant produces small, pinkish-purple flowers in summer. When crushed, the leaves emit a pleasant aroma similar to that of mint.
Care Guide
Teucrium Polium is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil and should be watered sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant. The plant does not require fertilization, but a light application of compost in the spring can be beneficial. Felty Germander grows best in full sun and is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Teucrium Polium is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. In rare cases, the plant may be affected by spider mites or whiteflies.
Habitat
Teucrium Polium is commonly found growing in rocky and arid habitats, such as hillsides and mountain slopes. It is native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia, but has been introduced to other regions, including North America.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Teucrium Polium be grown indoors?
A: While Felty Germander can be grown indoors, it prefers full sun and well-draining soil, which can be difficult to replicate indoors.
Q: Is Teucrium Polium toxic to pets?
A: Teucrium Polium is not considered toxic to pets, but it is always a good idea to keep plants out of reach of curious animals.
Q: How often should Teucrium Polium be watered?
A: Felty Germander is drought-tolerant and should be watered sparingly, only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Q: Can Teucrium Polium be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Teucrium Polium has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries, particularly in traditional Moroccan medicine. It is believed to have antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic properties.
Related Plants
- Teucrium Chamaedrys
- Teucrium Marum
- Teucrium Scorodonia
- Teucrium Montanum
References
- “Teucrium Polium L.” Plants for a Future. Accessed September 26, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Teucrium+polium.
- “Teucrium Polium.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 26, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287801.
- “Teucrium Polium.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. Accessed September 26, 2021. http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=204181.
