creeping thyme
Thymus serpyllum
USDA zones4 to 8
SunNeeds full sun (6+ hours)
WaterHandles dry to moderate soil
Size3 inches tall3 to 12 inches wide
- Growth rate
- Rapid
- Habit
- Creeping
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer, autumn
- Bloom color
- Deep pink
- Foliage color
- Blue, green
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, chalk
- Soil pH
- Alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum) is a perennial for rock gardens, ground cover, borders, and xeriscape. It is hardy to USDA zone 4, or down to -30°F (-34°C). This plant likes full sun and dry to average, sandy, loamy, or chalky soil. Deep pink flowers attract bees and butterflies, and the fragrant, evergreen leaves form a low mat that spreads quickly. It is not a favorite of deer or rabbits, though hungry ones will eat almost anything. Give it room to spread.
Pairs well with Blue fescue and Magnus coneflower.
Native range
Northern Europe.