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Herbs - CulinaryShrubs

Thymus pulegioides
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

broad-leaved thyme

A small, spreading, evergreen subshrub, to 25cm tall, with strongly-aromatic, small green leaves and, in early summer, erect spikes of tiny lilac-pink flowers

Other common names
broad-leaved thyme
greater wild thyme
see moredowny thyme
Synonyms
Thymus serpyllum subsp. lanuginosus
Thymus lanuginosus Mill.
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Pink Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

West–facing or South–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Lamiaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Matforming
Genus

Thymus are evergreen woody-based perennials, shrub or sub-shrubs with small aromatic leaves and terminal whorls of small, 2-lipped, tubular, purple, pink or white flowers in late spring or summer

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Europe to NW China

How to grow

Cultivation

Easy to grow in most well-drained, alkaline to neutral soils in full sun

Propagation

Propagate by division in spring. Semi-hardwood cuttings may be taken in mid- to late-summer although some bottom heat may be required

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Rock garden
  • Coastal
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Low Maintenance
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Pruning group 10

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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