Thymus serpyllum – Mother of Thyme; Wild Thyme; Elfin Thyme

General Information: This unique species is a low-growing groundcover, often planted between the stones or bricks in garden paths. Known for aesthetic beauty, pollinator attraction, and a savory aroma. The trailing stems are stunning in areas where they are allowed to hang down walls. As a culinary herb, the plant is similar to Garden Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) but with smaller hairless leaves, mat-forming and semi-deciduous in colder regions (USDA Zones 4-6). The leaves also have little aroma without bruising, however they release an intensely fragrant aroma at the slightest touch when exposed to full sun during the peak of summer. In mid summer, during July and August, the plant produces masses of tiny purple flowers in whorls which persist for an extended period. From late spring through summer, a golden flush of spring growth arises. Once established, this plant is not only drought tolerant, but thrives in and prefers drier, low fertility soil. An important landscape feature of this plant is tolerance to medium foot traffic, even handling occasional vehicle traffic. A very helpful plant for lawn replacement, especially in areas with poor soil, or where edible landscape features are desired. Wild Thyme covers large areas of droughty, rocky soils in southern Europe, and we have seen the plant in similar landscapes in the US in the Berkshire and Catskill mountains. Highly attractive to pollinators, Wild Thyme is considered an important Honeybee plant. Greece is known for producing Wild Thyme honey.

Edible Qualities: May be used as a cooking spice in the same manner as commercially available Thyme. Used medicinally across Europe in folk healing and globally in homeopathy.

Growing Requirements: Plant in full sun. Prefers well-drained soils, especially dry, infertile soils. Does not tolerate heavy clay. Does not tolerate standing water or salinity. Tolerates acidic, neutral, or mildly alkaline soils.