Family: Lamiaceae
Author: L.
Bibliography: Sp. pl. 2:564. 1753
Year: 1753
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Teucrium
Vegetable: False
Observations: WC. & C. Medit.
Description
Cat thyme, scientifically known as Teucrium marum, is a fascinating member of the Lamiaceae family. This species was first described and documented in 1753, highlighting its long-standing significance in botanical literature.
Native to the western and central Mediterranean regions, Cat thyme thrives in these warm climates, displaying a natural preference for well-drained soils and sunny habitats. The plant typically exhibits a shrubby growth form, boasting small, aromatic leaves and occasionally producing delicate flowers that add to its ornamental appeal.
One of the unique aspects of Teucrium marum is its aromatic properties, which are particularly compelling to cats, much like the more commonly known catnip. This fragrant nature is not only appreciated by feline companions but also valued in traditional herbal practices, where parts of the plant have been used for various remedies due to their purported medicinal properties.
In gardens, Cat thyme can serve both practical and decorative purposes. When planted strategically, it can create low-lying borders or function as ground cover, thanks to its dense, shrubby foliage. It’s also a delightful addition to rock gardens, where it can introduce texture and fragrance.
While relatively low-maintenance, Cat thyme does best when pruned regularly to encourage a more compact, lush growth, preventing it from becoming too woody. Gardeners in regions with similar climates to its native habitat will find this plant particularly rewarding, benefiting from its ease of growth and multipurpose appeal.
To sum up, Teucrium marum, or Cat thyme, stands out not only for its intriguing botanical characteristics but also for its historical and horticultural significance. Its aromatic appeal, low-maintenance nature, and versatility make it an excellent choice for garden enthusiasts looking to add a touch of Mediterranean charm to their plant collections.
Common Names
Swe: kattgamander
Ces: ožanka ko
En: Cat Thyme
Ar: طوقريون جبلي
Az: Dərman məryəmnoxudu
Ca: Eixorba-rates blanc
Cs: Ožanka kočičí, Ožanka ko
Nl: Amberkruid
Fr: Germandrée des chats, Germandrée marum, Herbe aux chats, Thym aux chats
De: Katzengamander
It: Camedrio maro, Erba dei gatti
Sv: Kattgamander
Synonyms
- Chamaedrys marum ((L.) Moench)
Distribution
- Corse (native)
- France (native)
- Italy (native)
- Sardegna (native)
- Yugoslavia (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Aug 6, 2021 by SEED Jardins (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 6, 2020 by BOTANIC SL (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 23, 2019 by aurelien betoul (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 1, 2021 by Patrice Nodet (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 21, 2010 by Tela Botanica − Hugues TINGUY (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Jul 1, 2019 by Émile Maurice (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 1, 2019 by Émile Maurice (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 22, 2022 by Nathalie Potel (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 27, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Marie-France PETIBON (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 1, 2021 by Patrice Nodet (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken May 23, 1990 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 23, 1990 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 31, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 2, 1993 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 6, 2011 by huy HO (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Leaf
Taken May 31, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 11, 2008 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 28, 2017 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 28, 2017 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 14, 2018 by bas yves (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Jun 11, 2020 by Bunyol Arnau (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 31, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 31, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 31, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 3, 2022 by Cahit Doğan (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7308317)
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:460544-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Teucrium marum L.)
Specifications
Growth
Ph maximum: 5.5
Ph minimum: 5.0
Light: 8
Atmospheric humidity: 4
Soil nutriments: 4