Garmander: This shrubby perennial multiplies and spreads and quickly, and with a maximum height of about 1 foot, makes an excellent border plant for gardens and paths. The dark glossy leaves resemble small oak leaves. Aromatic purple blossoms appear around mid-summer and continue to bloom into autumn. It generally prefers frost-free regions, but with proper winter protection it will survive in most climates. The hardy plant propagates easily from ripe seeds and division in spring, or by soft or hard wood cuttings in the summer. Plants are usually cut when flowering if leaves or whole plant are to be dried and used for infusions or liquid extracts.
It has been used since the times of ancient Greece as a remedy for a number of ailments including: loss of appetite, gall bladder disorders, gout, arthritis, and for weight loss. Incidents of hepatitis and liver disorders traced to its use have led to its being discontinued as an herbal remedy in some countries, most notably France. Native to the Mediterranean region, it is now cultivated worldwide and has given rise to several hybrids that are not suitable for medicinal use. Care must be taken when purchasing plants from nurseries to avoid getting a mistaken variety.