In early- to mid-summer, this mat-forming thyme erupts with masses of 6-inch-high spikes covered with pink flowers. The light green, tiny foliage, hugging the ground in mats, has a pleasing lemon fragrance when crushed. This plant shines when spilling over stone walls or between the cracks in paving stones, where passersby can tread on the leaves and release the lemony scent.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsThymes are well-loved by bees and butterflies. Plants spread to 8 inches or so.
CareGrow in well-drained and average, neutral to alkaline soil in full sun. In early spring, shear the plants and lightly trim back after flowering.
PropagationDivide in spring or fall, or sow seed in spring. Thymes are slow to germinate and hybridize regularly.
ProblemsGray mold, root rot.
- Genus : Thymus
- Plant Width : 1 to 3 feet
- Zones : 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
- Uses : Containers, Ground Covers
- Tolerance : Deer Tolerant, Frost Tolerant
- Moisture : Dry to Medium
- Bloom Time : Early Summer, Summer
- Characteristics : Fragrant Foliage, Showy Foliage
- Light : Full Sun
- Plant Type : Herbs
- Maintenance : Low
- Growth Rate : Moderate
- Flower Color : Pink
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest
- Plant Height : Under 6 inches
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