Virginia ecotype
Duration: Perennial
Habit: Upright, spreading, naturalizingSize: 1 - 3 ft
Flowering time: Jul, Aug, Sep
Bloom color: White, pink
Habitat: Ditches, wet meadowsMoisture: Moist to average, poorly or well draining
Light: Full sun to shadeSoils: Clay, sand, loam
Uses: filler in moist areas, pollinator gardens, hummingbird gardens, rain gardens, wild meadows
Teucrium canadense (American germander)
American germander, also known as Canada germander or wood sage, is known for its attractive spikes of white to pink flowers and its ability to thrive in a wide variety of habitats. This species spreads vigorously through underground rhizomes, which can lead to extensive colonies in its preferred conditions, average to wet areas with full sun or dappled light.
Crushed leaves emit a mild aromatic scent, reminiscent of other members of the mint family. The bitter foliage is unpalatable to deer and rabbits. The tubular blooms are highly attractive to bumblebees and butterflies, being visited occasionally by hummingbirds and hummingbird moths.
This species grows naturally in moist areas so is suitable for rain gardens, but is remarkably drought-tolerant once established, making it adaptable to various site conditions. It pairs well with other moisture-loving perennials such as Joe-Pye weed, swamp milkweed, and blue vervain.