

Specific epithet from Greek means creeping in reference to the trailing growth habit of this species. Genus name comes from the Greek word thymos (name used in ancient Greece for a species of Thymus or Satureja).

Dense inflorescences (primarily terminal but sometimes axillary) of tiny, tubular, bell-shaped, two-lipped, deep pink to purple flowers appear in summer (June-September) on erect flowering stems rising 2-4” tall.
#Elfin creeping thyme ground cover how to#
About How to Plant Seed Coverage Shaded areas of growing elfin thyme will. Although leaves are aromatic (fragrance of mint), strength of scent varies according to season and habitat, and leaves are usually not considered to be of culinary quality. Magic Creeping Thyme Seeds - 10000+ Seeds Ground Cover Flowers Perennial Thyme. Numerous, thin, somewhat woody, prostrate stems clad with tiny, opposite, oval-rounded, pubescent, almost sessile, glossy blue-green leaves (to 1/4” long) form a flat foliage mat to 2-3” tall which will spread over time by rooting stems to 12-18” wide. Wild thyme is native to Europe, western Asia and northern Africa. Though thyme has been an integral part of the cuisines from whence. It is rarely used in cooking ( Thymus vulgaris is the culinary thyme most commonly used in cooking). A creeping, dense, woody-based perennial, Elfin makes a pretty and tough ground cover. It can be propagated by division however, as a cultivated variety, be aware that it may be subject to certain restrictions or prohibitions on propagation.Thymus serpyllum, commonly called wild thyme, creeping thyme or mother-of-thyme, is a hairy, prostrate, creeping, woody-based perennial which is primarily grown as an ornamental ground cover. This is a selected variety of a species not originally from North America. Consider covering it with a thick layer of mulch in winter to protect it in exposed locations or colder microclimates. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is considered to be drought-tolerant, and thus makes an ideal choice for a low-water garden or xeriscape application. It prefers to grow in average to dry locations, and dislikes excessive moisture.
#Elfin creeping thyme ground cover full#
This plant should only be grown in full sunlight. As an evegreen perennial, this plant will typically keep its form and foliage year-round. Thymus serpyllum, known by the common names of Breckland thyme, Breckland wild thyme, wild thyme, creeping thyme, or elfin thyme, is a species of flowering. It grows at a fast rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 10 years. Its foliage tends to remain low and dense right to the ground. QAUZUY GARDEN 8000 Purple Creeping Thyme Seeds, Wild Elfin Thyme - Perennial Flamboyant & Exotic-Looking Landscaping Ground / Lawn Cover - Low-Maintenance. When grown in masses or used as a bedding plant, individual plants should be spaced approximately 16 inches apart. In cold climates, this little herb is deciduous, while in milder regions, the plant will retain its foliage year round. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration Įlfin Creeping Thyme is recommended for the following landscape applications Įlfin Creeping Thyme will grow to be only 2 inches tall at maturity extending to 3 inches tall with the flowers, with a spread of 18 inches. Elfin creeping thyme plant (Thymus serpyllum) is a low growing, one to two inches (2.5-5 cm.) tall herbaceous perennial sub shrub with a dense mounding habit. Deer don't particularly care for this plant and will usually leave it alone in favor of tastier treats. A slower growing form, but still excellent as a drought-tolerant lawn substitute or for. This plant will require occasional maintenance and upkeep, and is best cleaned up in early spring before it resumes active growth for the season. Foliage is grey-green, smothered by soft-pink flowers in early summer. It brings an extremely fine and delicate texture to the garden composition and should be used to full effect. Its attractive tiny fragrant round leaves remain grayish green in color throughout the year.Įlfin Creeping Thyme is a dense herbaceous evergreen perennial with a ground-hugging habit of growth. Other Names: Mother-of-Thyme, Creeping ThymeĪ highly desirable and popular groundcover, forming a dense low mat completely covered in lavender flowers throughout summer, attractive fine and fragrant foliage the rest of the season needs a dry and sunny location, can take light foot trafficĮlfin Creeping Thyme is smothered in stunning lavender flowers at the ends of the stems from early to mid summer.
