#teucrium

Teucrium fruticans L., Lamiaceae

8.3.2026, Pevki neighbourhood, Attica

Two classic species in any eastern mesic prairie or intact riparian zone. 

Ludwigia alternifolia, alternate leaf seedbox, 

More known for it’s winter aesthetics and it’s unique square capsule that utilizes bellowing effect during winter to puff out dust sized seeds into the breeze, this plant is critical for early wetland rehabilitation or riparian colonization in general. After massive disturbance like bank failure or flood based erosion this plant is one of the first to germinate along with the annuals like jewelweed and ragweed. It is much more low lying and where it doesn’t get shaded out it can produce incredible swale line populations. It’s picked often for bioremediation projects in seed mixes and bioswale seed mixes for this reason. 

Teucrium canadense var. canadense (, American/Canadian glandless germander, wood sage,

Classic lamianoid (lamiaceae/ mint family member)  with fragrant terpenoids exudence and squared of stems, this is more or less abundant in many habitats but riparian zones and open mesic woods are the most common location for them. Often utilized for native woodland gardens this plant has also been selected for function in permaculture beds though I don’t necessarily recommend it be used, often plant medicine is less focused on in permaculture and so is the idea of ecosystem roles, this plant is often selected for both purposes. If we are looking for soil maintenance(aeration and water retention) and more prolonged nectar sources(June-September in some states) in part shade this species is could appear ideal and for native restoration projects I feel this is the case; but, not for permaculture. While this may be a good antiseptic if leaves are boiled and placed on wounds, and while this does have a soothing effect it also has a historic use for tea mixes. Historically it was considered a diuretic and and a sweat inducing species, helps with throat swelling and even is useful for aiding expectorants, while this is true, their isn’t enough data on additional issues for health. European species in this genera are known for similar qualities and were at one point used for chemical extract complexes, these were added to mixes of skullcap extract for nerve suppressant to aid with spasm control and pain. In a paper re-evaluated in 2015( originally published in HerbalGram. Feb-Apr2012, Issue 93, p34-41. 8p.) Research supported that this species was known to cause liver toxicity . So, depending on application, this could be implemented; but, proper education/ full discretion/signage/warnings should be used if that ever becomes the plan to implement this species in a permaculture setting purposefully. Again, for just native gardening and for restoration or prairie scaping/woodland native scaping this is a great species. 

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Teucrium capitatum L., Lamiaceae (Labiatae)

15.5.2018, Dasikos Dromos Metochi Agios Giorgios, Parnitha, Attika