Creeping thyme - Thymus serpyllum (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Creeping thyme

Also known as: Wild thyme, Elfin thyme

Creeping thyme is a perennial native to Northern Europe, Western Asia, and northern Africa. Its pink to purple bell-shaped flowers and blue-green leaves make it a popular ornamental plant. Because of its pleasant fragrance, it is also used in the production of perfumes. Throughout the Middle Ages, Thymus serpyllum was seen as an emblem of courage and strength.

Scientific classification

Species

Creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum)

Mints plantains olives and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb, Shrub

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

2 cm to 10 cm

Plant Height

25 cm to 30 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Purple, Pink, White

Flower Color

Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Creeping thyme

Distribution of Creeping thyme

Distribution Map

Creeping thyme is a plant originally native to the temperate regions of Europe. Its growth extends through the major regions of Northern, Central, and parts of Eastern Europe. Additionally, creeping thyme has been introduced and is now cultivated in other parts of the world, including the continent of Australia. Despite its expanded range, creeping thyme remains predominantly associated with its native European habitats.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Dry stony ground, open sandy heaths and grassland

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Creeping thyme is a species of flowering herb that is planted for its good looks, pleasant scent, and toughness. It attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it perfect for a pollinator garden. It can also be used in containers, borders, and rock gardens. It also works well as a ground cover.

Symbolism

Activity, Strength & Courage, Thrift, Ensures good sleep

Interesting Facts

Creeping thyme is a hardy perennial often grown as an herb or even a lawn substitute. It has a flavor and fragrance similar to mint and can be used to make teas or for seasoning dishes. This fragrant herb spreads easily through nodes that grow along its stems and forms thick, dense mats, making it ideal for filling in between stepping stones.

Name Story

Creeping thyme: There are many different explanations on how creeping thyme, or Thymus serpyllum, got its name. It is thought that the word Thyme comes from the Greek word thumos. Thomus means smoke which may refer to the fragrant odor of the plant. Thumos may also be associated with courage. Historically, ladies would embroider a spray of thyme with a bee onto scarves which they gave to their protector.

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Cultivars

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

Creeping thyme 'Magic Carpet'Creeping thyme 'Pink Chintz'

Quickly Identify Creeping thyme

Tiny, elliptical leaves with pubescent surface, emitting mint-like fragrance, measure 1/4 inch (6 mm) long.

Petite evergreen with creeping habit, standing 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) tall, spreading 3-12 inches (7.5-30 cm) wide.

Distinctive tubular, bell-shaped flowers in deep pink to purple hues, 1/8 inch (3 mm) long, emitting subtle fragrance.

Schizocarp fruit divides into four locules with seeds, facilitating dispersal, maturing into four one-seeded sections.

Thin, slightly woody prostrate stems, up to 3 inches (7.6 cm) long, covered in small leaves, aiding horizontal growth.

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Creeping thyme

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Adapted to infrequent watering, creeping thyme needs hydration every 1-2 weeks, showcasing drought resilience. Thriving outdoors in well-draining soil, it prefers dried surfaces between waterings. As an evergreen, creeping thyme retains water, maintaining foliage year-round amid varying moisture conditions.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, creeping thyme requires balanced nutrition fertilizers every 6-8 weeks during the growing season. Adjust for plant size and season, with lighter feedings in fall. Water thoroughly post-fertilization to prevent root burn. Consider slow-release formulations to simplify application and avoid over-fertilization.

Pruning: Creeping thyme features a low-growing, mat-forming habit with aromatic leaves. Early to late spring pruning by one-third fosters dense growth and prevents legginess, while removing dead stems boosts health. Regular pruning promotes vigorous flowering, making creeping thyme an excellent choice for ground cover.

Propagation: Creeping thyme should be propagated in spring and summer using cuttings. The process is easy, with successful rooting indicated by new growth. Providing a well-draining soil medium is essential for optimal root development.

Repotting: Repot creeping thyme in early spring before new growth, every 2-3 years. Use a shallow, wide container for the sprawling roots. Ensure proper drainage and water sparingly post-repotting to prevent rot, promoting resilient growth in creeping thyme's delicate structure.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Images of Creeping thyme

Distribution of Creeping thyme

Culture

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Creeping thyme

Care Guide for Creeping thyme

PEOPLE ALSO ASK

Common Pests & Diseases