Product details
Product Overview
Thymus vulgaris Common Thyme is a hardy, aromatic herb prized for its culinary, medicinal, and ornamental uses. Its small, grey-green leaves and delicate flowers make it an excellent addition to herb gardens, rockeries, and low borders.
Growth:
Forms a low mat or mound, typically growing 15-30 cm high and spreading 30-45 cm or more under favorable conditions.
Light Requirements:
Thrives in full sun; requires good light to maintain compact habit and develop strong aromatic oils.
Soil Requirements:
Prefers well-drained, light soils like sandy or rocky mixes enriched with organic matter. Avoid heavy, waterlogged soils.
Water Requirements:
Water moderately during establishment. Once matured, it tolerates dry conditions and prefers that soil be allowed to dry out between waterings.
Frost Tolerance:
Moderately frost tolerant. Can handle light frost but may suffer damage in severe freezes, especially on top growth.
Drought Tolerance:
High. Once established, common thyme is very tolerant of drought and is well-suited to low-water gardens and dry, sunny areas.
Flowering Information:
Produces small, tubular flowers in summer (and into late summer depending on climate) in shades of pink, purple, or white. The flowers attract pollinators and add decorative interest.
Spacing Requirements:
Allow 25-35 cm between plants to ensure airflow and room for spread.
Fertiliser Requirements:
Low nutrient needs. A light application of compost or balanced slow-release fertiliser in spring is usually sufficient. Avoid heavy fertilisation which may reduce essential oil content.
Care and Maintenance:
Trim back flowered stems after blooming to maintain compact growth and encourage new foliage. Avoid overcutting into old wood. Mulch lightly to conserve moisture but keep mulch away from the crown to prevent rot. In colder climates, protect from extreme winter moisture or provide shelter.