3 named cultivars
Same species
3 named cultivars
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Groundcover
Height
4 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Europe, North Africa, temperate Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Thymus serpyllum, commonly known as creeping thyme, is a low-growing perennial herb known for its aromatic foliage and small, tubular purple flowers. This species is particularly valued for its drought resistance and attractive ground cover capabilities.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during rooting.
- Thin out crowded plants to promote airflow within 6 weeks.
- Water sparingly once established, allowing soil to dry between watering.
- Prune lightly after flowering to encourage bushy growth.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Plant in full sun with well-drained soil for best aromatic growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water only when soil is dry to prevent root rot 🌱
- Prune after flowering to shape the plant
- Provide full sun for optimal scent and growth
Don't
- Avoid overwatering which can cause fungal diseases ❌
- Don’t prune excessively during the growing season
- Don’t plant in poorly drained soil
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Wild Thyme questions
What zones can Wild Thyme grow in?
Wild Thyme is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Wild Thyme deer resistant?
Yes — Wild Thyme is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Wild Thyme bloom?
Wild Thyme typically blooms in early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Wild Thyme need full sun?
Wild Thyme does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Wild Thyme drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Wild Thyme handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Thymus to compare
Elfin Creeping Thyme
Thymus serpyllum 'Elfin'
Red Creeping Thyme
Thymus thymus 'Coccineus'
Woolly Thyme
Thymus lanuginosus
Magic Carpet Thyme
Thymus serpyllum 'Magic Carpet'
Annie Hall Creeping Thyme
Thymus serpyllum 'Annie Hall'
Culinary Thyme
Thymus vulgaris 'Culinary Thyme'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Grow Wild Thyme with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.