Commonly called Cat Thyme, Teucrium marum is a shrubby perennial that is an ideal addition to the drier border areas of the garden.
It is called Cat Thyme because it acts as a stimulant, however it is not a thyme plant at all.
The problem with cats and Cat Thyme, is that they will destroy it fairly quickly. They rub against it roll on it and generally get very excited about this new plant.
The plant is also used in a range homeopathic remedies and is only one of a number of Teucrium species which are collectively known as Germanders..
In the garden, it is groan for the foliage and the attractive flowers as well as its easy care, drought tolerant nature.
Care
A well drained humus rich soil and a sunny position is about all that this plant requires. Wherever you plant it, cats will roll in it and make it a little messy, so if this is an issue, plant it somewhere out of sight.
You can mulch around it to give the plant a cooler root run, and you can use a little general purpose fertiliser in spring to improve growth.
Other than that, pruning to maintain a tidy growth habit is all that is required. Prune back after flowering to keep growth habit tidy and encourage new fresh leaves.
Propagation
By division, from semi ripe cuttings and from seed.
Summary Information
- Common Name – Cat Thyme
- Botanical Name – Teucrium marum
- Soil – Well drained, humus rich.
- Position – Full sun.
- Foliage – Mid grey / green.
- Flowers – Magenta.
- Flowering time – Summer to autumn.
- Growth Rate – Fast.
- Height – To .3 metre (12 inches), taller in good conditions.
- Spread – Clump forming to .3 metre.
- Root system – Non invasive.
- Frost tolerant – Yes light frosts.
- Drought tolerant – Yes
- Pruning – Prune back after flowering by 1/3rd.
Teucrium marum or Cat Thyme plants are available for sale from the following participating nurseries
52 Rodd St Canowindra NSW 2804
An online nursery specialising in drought and frost tolerant perennials and fragrant, edible and herbs.
www.perennialle.com.au
138 Olinda-Monbulk Rd, Olinda VIC 3788
"Large range of rare and unusual plants.."
www.gentiananursery.com.au