
Photos are representative and may not match your specific variety.
Common Thyme
HerbThymus vulgaris
- Full sun
- Zones 5–9
- 90 days to maturity
- Herbs
- 9" spacing
- Low water
- Perennial
- pH 6–8
Overview
Common Thyme is a compact, woody perennial herb with tiny, narrow green leaves and delicate pink or purple flowers. Reaching maturity in 90-95 days, it becomes a robust ground cover perfect for edging and containers. This Mediterranean native thrives in poor, well-drained soil and is remarkably cold-hardy. Its earthy, minty flavor with warm, pungent undertones makes it essential for cooking—particularly valued in French cuisine and Mediterranean dishes. More cold-tolerant than most culinary herbs, Common Thyme delivers consistent flavor year-round and rarely suffers from serious pest issues.
Planting
Start indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost. Seeds are tiny and slow to germinate. Easier to propagate from cuttings or plant divisions.
Growing
Sun: full. Water: low. Soil pH: 6–8. Space plants 9" apart. Germination: 14-28.
Pests & diseases
Common pests: Spider mites, aphids (rarely serious problems). Common diseases: Root rot in poorly drained soils, botrytis in humid conditions.