Thymus vulgaris
Garden ThymeFamily: Lamiaceae
Origin: Southern Europe
Thymus vulgaris is a bushy, low-growing herbaceous perennial. Can be grown in USDA Zone 5-9. It flourishes best in full sun and should remain healthy and pest-free with regular water. The leaves are green and furry, and produce clusters of tiny white, off-white, blue, lavender, or purple fragrant flowers from summer to early fall. Thyme is also well known for its ethnomedical properties and use as a spice or herb.
Growing thyme in a pot is the most viable option in cooler areas, as it can be moved indoors during prolonged periods of snow and frost. When pot-growing thyme, the moist, well-drained soil, reduce watering in winter to prevent root-rot.
Overall, Thymus vulgaris is a striking, fragrant and rewarding plant, a great addition to any herb garden that rewards with foliage and delicate flowers all summer long. Not only is it aesthetically pleasing but also provides culinary and medical uses. It is easy to maintain and incorporate into your garden or natural border and can even thrive in cooler climates with a little extra care.
Thyme is an important spice of European cuisines, especially in South Europe. It is especially typical for France, where fresh branches of thyme, tied up into bundles together with other fresh herbs, are added to soups, sauces and stews, being removed before serving.
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