Thymus serpyllum
MOTHER OF THYME, WILD THYME
Family: Lamiaceae
Pronounced: TY-mus ser-PIL-lum
Quick Jumps
Growing Guide
Rainy Side Notes
GROWING GUIDE
Origin:
Europe.
Plant Group:
Herbs.
Hardiness:
Sunset zones: All.
USDA zones: 4-9.
Mature size:
Height: 6 inches (15 cm).
Width: 18 inches (45 cm).
Flowering period:
Summer.
Flowering attributes:
Tiny, purplish-white flowers in whorls.
Leaf attributes:
Fragrant, hairy, ovate green leaves 1/8 inch long. Golden coloring on new growth in spring as shown in photo above.
Growth habit:
Mat-forming.
Light:
Full sun to light shade.
Soil:
Well-drained, neutral soil.
Propagation Methods:
Sow seed in spring.
Divide in spring.
Cuttings early summer.
Pruning Methods:
Lightly trim after flowering to remove flower stems.
Rainy Side Notes
My plants were started from seed over ten years ago and now are divisions from the originals. Very drought tolerant once established. Great for between stepping stones or hanging down walls or tucked into herb seats. Can also be used as a cooking herb.
Photographed in author's garden.
Gardening for the Homebrewer: Grow and Process Plants for Making Beer, Wine, Gruit, Cider, Perry, and More
By co-authors Debbie Teashon (Rainy Side Gardeners) and Wendy Tweton
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