Thymus serpyllum aka Wild Thyme

Taxonomy

Thymus serpyllum, also known as Breckland thyme, Breckland wild thyme, wild thyme, creeping thyme, or elfin thyme, is a low-growing subshrub that is part of the mint family Lamiaceae. This plant is native to most of Europe and North Africa and is characterized by its evergreen oval leaves that measure between 3-8mm long, and its strongly scented flowers that come in shades of lilac, pink-purple, magenta, or white. Breckland thyme is a hardy plant that can tolerate some pedestrian traffic and produces a range of odors from heavily herbal to lightly lemon, depending on the variety. Breckland Thyme is also a rare houseplant that is easy to grow and prefers regular watering and long-lasting direct light. It should be less than 1 foot from a window and prefers well-draining soil. Repotting is recommended each time the plant doubles in size, and it shouldn't require added fertilizers. This plant belongs to the Thymus genus and is native to Northern Europe, Western Asia, and Northern Africa.

Common names

Wild Thyme, Breckland Thyme, Breckland Garden

How to care for Wild Thyme

Difficulty

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Wild Thyme due to its easy-going nature.

Water

Wild Thyme should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Wild Thyme loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Wild Thyme thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Breckland Garden.

Toxicity

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

Humidity

The Wild Thyme does not need extra humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their root system, making soil watering the best way to provide humidity to your plants.

Fertilizer

The Wild Thyme grows at a slow pace and doesn't require any supplementary fertilizers. By renewing its potting soil once a year, it should receive enough nourishment. Remember, plants obtain their energy from sunlight, not fertilizers.

Region of origin

Wild Thyme’s native range is temperate Europe, North Africa, and Asia.


More info:
Wikipedia