Canada Germander (Teucrium canadense): Native Wetland Perennial for Pollinators

Botanical Profile

Family: Lamiaceae (lay-mee-AY-see-ee)
Genus: Teucrium (TEW-kree-um)
Species: canadense (ka-na-DEN-see)

Description

Canada germander is a rhizomatous perennial growing 2–4 feet tall with square stems and opposite, lance-shaped, toothed leaves. In mid to late summer, it produces dense, terminal spikes of tubular, pale lavender to pinkish flowers with a prominent lower lip. The flowers are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Spreads aggressively by rhizomes to form colonies.

Cultivation

Native to moist prairies, meadows, and streambanks across North America. Prefers full sun to partial shade and consistently moist to wet soil. Tolerates clay and seasonal flooding. Hardy in zones 3–8. Can be aggressive in garden settings; best used in large naturalistic plantings, rain gardens, or contained areas. Divide rhizomes in spring to control spread.

Ecological Value

A magnet for native pollinators, especially long-tongued bees. Provides nectar during mid-summer dearth. Seeds feed birds. Deer resistant. Excellent for wetland restoration and pollinator corridors.

Traditional Uses

Used by Indigenous peoples for medicinal teas (fever, colds, digestive issues). The genus name Teucrium honors King Teucer of Troy, who supposedly discovered the plant's medicinal properties.