Red Creeping Thyme
Thymus thymus 'Coccineus'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
3 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Dry to moderate
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Europe
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Thymus praecox 'Coccineus' is a low-growing, mat-forming perennial herb known for its dense coverage, aromatic dark green foliage, and profuse magenta flowers in summer. This cultivar is valued for its vibrant flower display, creating a brilliant carpet of color. It is excellent for rock gardens, path edging, and planting between stepping stones.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in full sun for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during rooting.
- Transplant seedlings once they develop strong roots, after 6 weeks.
- Prune lightly after flowering to promote bushy growth.
- Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry between watering during summer.
- Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water when topsoil feels dry, especially in drought-prone periods 🌱
- Prune after flowering to encourage dense foliage
- Provide full sun for optimal growth
- Use well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t fertilize excessively, as it prefers lean soil
- Do not plant in shady areas, as it needs full sun
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| 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
Red Creeping Thyme questions
What zones can Red Creeping Thyme grow in?
Red Creeping Thyme is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Red Creeping Thyme deer resistant?
Yes — Red Creeping Thyme is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Red Creeping Thyme bloom?
Red Creeping 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 Red Creeping Thyme need full sun?
Red Creeping Thyme does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Red Creeping Thyme drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Red Creeping 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'
Magic Carpet Thyme
Thymus serpyllum 'Magic Carpet'
Annie Hall Creeping Thyme
Thymus serpyllum 'Annie Hall'
Culinary Thyme
Thymus vulgaris 'Culinary Thyme'
Woolly Thyme
Thymus lanuginosus
Common Thyme Garden Thyme
Thymus vulgaris
Keep exploring
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Grow Red Creeping 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.
