Description Light/Soil/Water Hardiness Creeping Thyme, generally referring to Thymus serpyllum or similar low-growing, mat-forming species and cultivars of the Thymus genus, is a wonderfully fragrant, woody perennial herb. Creeping Thyme's special appeal comes from its incredible versatility as a low-maintenance, highly fragrant, and beautiful groundcover. It's a truly walkable groundcover; unlike many herbs, it can handle light foot traffic, releasing a delightful aroma when stepped on. This makes it perfect for planting between stepping stones, in pathways Creeping Thyme produces a profusion of tiny, often pastel-colored flowers, typically in shades of pink, purple, lavender, or white. These blossoms form dense mats of color during late spring and early summer, creating a truly spectacular sight. Creeping Thyme absolutely flourishes in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Adequate sun is crucial for strong growth, vibrant foliage, and abundant flowering. It can tolerate very light partial shade, but performance may be reduced. Creeping Thyme is highly drought-tolerant. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. During periods of extreme heat or in containers, more frequent, but still moderate, watering might be necessary. This plant demands excellent drainage. It thrives in lean, well-drained, even sandy or rocky soils. Avoid heavy, clay soils that retain too much moisture. A neutral to slightly alkaline pH, between 6.0 and 8.0, is ideal. Ideal temperatures range from 60°F to 85°F (15°C to 29°C). USDA Zone 4-9 USDA Zone 9b: to -3.8 °C (25 °F) USDA Zone 10a: to -1.1 °C (30 °F) USDA Zone 10b: to 1.7 °C (35 °F) USDA Zone 11: above 4.5 °C (40 °F)
