Creeping Thyme
Thymus serpyllum
Also listed as Origanum serpyllum, Serpyllum vulgare
Also known as Wild Thyme, Mother of Thyme, Hillwort
Climate Match for your location
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A low-growing, spreading evergreen groundcover with tiny aromatic leaves and delicate pink, purple, or white flowers. Excellent for pathways, rock gardens, and drought-tolerant landscapes.
Why grow it
Creeping thyme spreads more vigorously than many upright thyme species, making it particularly useful as a living mulch or pathway edging in well-drained sites. It tolerates foot traffic better than most groundcovers and establishes quickly in poor soils where many ornamentals struggle. The aromatic foliage attracts pollinators while requiring minimal fertilizer or maintenance once established.
Watch out for
In humid climates with poor drainage, creeping thyme is prone to root rot and fungal issues; ensure soil dries between waterings. Densely planted stands may accumulate dead material in the center over time, requiring occasional raking or renewal pruning to maintain vigor and appearance.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Lamiaceae
Native Range
Europe, Western Asia, North Africa
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Ground cover
Low spreading plants that carpet the soil.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
A low-growing, spreading evergreen groundcover with tiny aromatic leaves and delicate pink, purple, or white flowers. Excellent for pathways, rock gardens, and drought-tolerant landscapes.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Creeping Thyme grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Creeping thyme spreads more vigorously than many upright thyme species, making it particularly useful as a living mulch or pathway edging in well-drained sites. It tolerates foot traffic better than most groundcovers and establishes quickly in poor soils where many ornamentals struggle. The aromatic foliage attracts pollinators while requiring minimal fertilizer or maintenance once established.
Watch out for
In humid climates with poor drainage, creeping thyme is prone to root rot and fungal issues; ensure soil dries between waterings. Densely planted stands may accumulate dead material in the center over time, requiring occasional raking or renewal pruning to maintain vigor and appearance.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Lamiaceae
Native Range
Europe, Western Asia, North Africa
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Ground cover
Low spreading plants that carpet the soil.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
Similar ground covers you might consider:
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