Thymus serpyllum (Thyme) – versatile ground cover and aromatic perennial

Thymus serpyllum, commonly known as wild thyme, is a low-growing perennial herbaceous plant that offers both ornamental and culinary uses. This perennial is ideal for rock gardens, borders, herbaceous and creeping groundcovers, and can also serve as a useful pollinator.

Thanks to its compact growth, aromatic foliage, and long flowering period, Thymus serpyllum is an easy-to-maintain, multifunctional addition to any garden.

Characteristics – low growing and aromatic

Thymus serpyllum grows low to the ground, usually 5–15 cm tall, and forms a dense carpet of small, green leaves. The plant has a creeping, spreading habit, making it excellent as a groundcover or for use between paving stones, on slopes, or in rock gardens.

In summer, small, purple to pink flowers appear in compact clusters, which are not only ornamental but also an important food source for bees, bumblebees, and butterflies. The aromatic leaves can be used in cooking as a herb, with a slightly spicy and aromatic flavor.

Location and care

Thymus serpyllum is easy to care for and robust. For optimal growth:

• Sun: Full sun for compact growth and aromatic leaves

• Soil: well-drained, calcareous and slightly dry; tolerant of poor soil

• Water: Drought tolerant once established; little water needed

• Fertilization: minimal feeding; too much fertilizer can reduce the aromatic flavor

The plant is winter hardy and remains in the same place for several years, making it very suitable for permanent plantings, ground cover and rock gardens.

Ecological value

Thymus serpyllum is a truly pollinator-friendly plant. Its flowers attract bees, bumblebees, and butterflies, contributing to biodiversity and a healthy garden.

In addition, wild thyme is a useful plant in herb and vegetable gardens: the aromatic leaves can repel certain pests and slightly improve the soil structure.

Application in garden design

Thymus serpyllum is versatile in use:

• Ground cover: forms a green carpet between stones or in borders

• Rock gardens and slopes: low, creeping growth holds the soil and adds structure

• Herb garden: aromatic leaves for use in salads, sauces and marinades

• Pots and containers: compact growth makes the plant suitable for herb pots

• Biodiversity: attracts beneficial insects and supports pollinators

Its low, creeping form and aromatic scent make Thymus serpyllum both functional and decorative, and it suits natural, Mediterranean or ecological gardens.

Advantages

1. Compact and creeping: ideal as a ground cover or rock garden plant

2. Aromatic and culinary: leaves can be used as a herb

3. Pollinator-friendly: flowers attract bees, bumblebees and butterflies

4. Hardy and easy to maintain: long life with minimal care

5. Versatile: borders, rock gardens, pots, herb gardens and slopes