January Plant of the Month

Wild Thyme (Thymus serpyllum)

General Culture: Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils in full sun. Tolerates drought and poor soils of somewhat low fertility. Loose, sandy or rocky soils with excellent drainage are best. Cut back stems as necessary to maintain plant appearance or to control growth/spread. Plants are evergreen in mild winters.

Noteworthy Characteristics: This thyme (sometimes commonly called creeping thyme, wild thyme or mother-of-thyme) is a creeping, woody based perennial which is primarily used as a ground cover. Numerous, thin, somewhat woody stems form a flat mat (2-3" tall) with tiny rounded, glossy blue-green leaves (to 1/4"). Although leaves are aromatic, strength of scent varies according to season and habitat and leaves are usually not considered to be of culinary quality. Clusters of tiny, tubular, deep pink flowers appear in summer. Flowers are attractive to bees.

Uses: Best as a small area ground cover or filler between stepping stones. Will sprawl over small rocks or over ledges in the rock garden.