272 



WEED FLORA OF IOWA 



American Germander (Teucrium canadense L.). 



Description. — A perennial, downy, erect herb 1-3 ft. high with 

 running root-stocks; leaves pubescent, short-petioled, downy be- 

 neath, ovate, lanceolate, serrate with a rounded base; floral leaves 

 small; flowers in ample wandlike spikes; calyx 5-toothed, the up- 

 per lobes obtuse ; corolla purple, rose or whitish. 



Distribution. — From New England to Mexico and northwest to 

 Manitoba. Common in Iowa alluvial grounds in pastures, mead- 

 ows, grain fields, etc. 



Extermination. — A very troublesome weed in the north. It is, 

 however, an excellent bee-plant. Should have the same treatment 

 as quack grass. The root-stocks should be exposed and allowed to 

 dry. After plowing the field follow with a disc and harrow once 

 a week after the small grain crop is removed. 



Pig. 157. Germander or Wood Sage (Teuchrium canadense). Common in field3 



and woods. 

 (Photographed by Colburn.) 



