Thyme
Picking Thyme
Thyme: Picking the Best Thyme for You!
Thyme is a versatile herb, cherished for its culinary, ornamental, and medicinal uses. All varieties of thyme are culinary, ornamental, and perfect for small gardens where maximizing space is essential. Whether you’re looking to enhance your garden’s beauty, attract pollinators, or elevate your cooking, there’s a thyme variety suited to your needs.
When selecting a thyme variety, consider your specific needs and preferences. Are you looking for a culinary herb, a decorative ground cover, or a pollinator-friendly plant? With so many options, you’re sure to find a thyme that fits your garden and lifestyle.
No matter which variety you choose, thyme is a hardy, low-maintenance herb that will reward you with its beauty and utility for years to come.
Here are some of the most popular thyme varieties and what makes each unique:
English Thyme -A classic culinary favorite, English thyme offers a robust flavor that’s perfect for soups, stews, and roasts. Its compact growth habit (6-12 inches tall) makes it ideal for herb gardens and containers. Hardy to Zone 4.
Elfin Thyme -This miniature variety is perfect for ground cover and fairy gardens. With its tiny leaves and delicate flowers, Elfin thyme adds charm to rock gardens and pathways. It grows only 1-2 inches tall and is hardy to Zone 4.
Woolly Thyme - Known for its soft, fuzzy texture, Woolly thyme is an excellent choice for ground cover in dry, sunny areas. While not commonly used in cooking, its unique appearance adds interest to landscapes. It grows 2-3 inches tall and is hardy to Zone 5.
Creeping Red Thyme - Creeping Red thyme is a vibrant ground cover with stunning red flowers that attract bees and butterflies. It thrives in rocky areas and between stepping stones, offering a pop of color. It grows 2-4 inches tall and is hardy to Zone 4.
Pink Chintz Thyme - With its soft pink flowers and fragrant foliage, Pink Chintz thyme is a beautiful and aromatic ground cover. It’s drought-tolerant and thrives in well-drained soil. This variety grows 2-3 inches tall and is hardy to Zone 5.
Highland Cream Thyme - This variegated variety features cream-edged leaves that bring a touch of elegance to gardens. Highland Cream thyme is both ornamental and aromatic, making it a standout in mixed borders. It grows 4-6 inches tall and is hardy to Zone 6.
Mother of Thyme - Also known as Creeping Thyme, this low-growing variety forms a dense mat of fragrant foliage. It’s perfect for filling spaces between pavers and suppressing weeds. It grows 2-3 inches tall and is hardy to Zone 4.
Lemon Thyme - Lemon thyme stands out for its citrusy fragrance and flavor, which pairs beautifully with chicken, fish, and vegetables. Its bright aroma also makes it a great addition to potpourris. It grows 6-12 inches tall and is hardy to Zone 5.
Variegated Lemon Thyme - This variety combines the zesty aroma of lemon thyme with attractive variegated foliage. It’s an eye-catching choice for containers and garden beds. It grows 6-12 inches tall and is hardy to Zone 5.
Silver Thyme - Silver thyme’s green leaves edged with silver bring a touch of sparkle to herb gardens. Its mild flavor works well in cooking, and it’s equally valued for its ornamental appeal. It grows 6-12 inches tall and is hardy to Zone 5.