Mother of thyme (Thymus praecox)

Mother of thyme

Also known as: Wild thyme, Woolly thyme

Mother of thyme, or Creeping Thyme, is a flowering lawn substitute. It grows in low, dense mats and is hardy and deer resistant. This flowering herb is edible, like other species of Thyme, and has a mild, mint-like flavor. It grows easily and can be started by seed or division.

Scientific classification

Species

Mother of thyme (Thymus praecox)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb, Shrub

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

Brown

Fruit Color

Pink, Purple, Red

Flower Color

Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Mother of thyme

Culture

Garden Use

The extremely popular mother of thyme is beloved for its wafting fragrance, lilac-colored blooms, and mat-forming growth habit. Frequently grown as a groundcover, for edging (particularly between stone paths), or even on walls and roofs, mother of thyme is a must-have in stone gardens, Mediterranean gardens, and roof gardens.

Symbolism

bravery

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Mother of thyme, including the following common varieties :

Mother of thyme 'Coccineus'

Quickly Identify Mother of thyme

Ovate, bluish-green leaves with a spicy fragrance and fine hairs.

Hairy stems that spread horizontally, rooting easily and forming a dense mat.

Clusters of tiny, tubular flowers in pinkish-purple to white hues, attracting pollinators.

Fruit is a schizocarp, splitting into small, brown, one-seeded segments for propagation.

Petals arranged in whorled pattern, creating fragrant clusters blooming June-September.

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Care Guide for Mother of thyme

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from rocky, well-drained European soils, mother of thyme thrives in balanced dry and humid conditions. It prefers optimal weekly watering and retains foliage year-round, which helps conserve water during droughts or between watering cycles.

Fertilize: To ensure optimal growth of mother of thyme, fertilize with balanced nutrients in spring and high phosphorus before blooming. Apply quarterly, avoiding over-fertilization. Adjust feeding with seasons, using less in winter, and consider slow-release granules for steady nutrient supply, promoting mother of thyme's vigor and health.

Pruning: Mother of thyme thrives with regular pruning, ideally done in early spring to late winter. Focus on removing dead stems to enhance airflow and stimulate blooming. Use clean tools for precise cuts and avoid heavy pruning during blooming to maintain flower production and overall vigor.

Propagation: Mother of thyme is ideally propagated via stem cuttings during spring or summer. This method is easy, with successful propagation indicated by new growth on cuttings. Maintaining proper moisture is essential during the rooting process.

Repotting: Repot mother of thyme every 2-3 years in early spring to support growth. Use a shallow, wide pot to mimic its spreading nature. Ensure well-draining soil and avoid overwatering post-repotting to prevent root rot, enabling mother of thyme to thrive with these care adjustments.

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Images of Mother of thyme

Culture

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Mother of thyme

Care Guide for Mother of thyme

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