Thymus serpyllum 'Magic Carpet'
groundcover

Magic Carpet Thyme

Thymus serpyllum 'Magic Carpet'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated
Real-Time Pricing
Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Groundcover

Height

2 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Low, drought-tolerant once established

Humidity

Prefers dry to moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe, North Africa

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

A low-growing, spreading ground cover with delicate pink flowers. A vigorous, mat-forming cultivar with tiny, aromatic, dark green leaves. In summer, it is covered in a dense 'carpet' of tiny, two-lipped, lavender-pink flowers that are highly attractive to bees.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesThymus serpyllum 'Magic Carpet' offers vibrant purple blooms and aromatic foliage, perfect for groundcover and edging.
Practical UsesIts low-maintenance nature makes it ideal for drought-tolerant gardens and herb gardens.
Ecological BenefitsProvides habitat and nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings lightly and keep soil moist during rooting process.
  3. Transplant seedlings when they have established roots, usually after 6 weeks.
  4. Space plants 12 inches apart for optimal growth and air circulation.
  5. Apply a light layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  6. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining sandy or rocky soil to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water moderately, allowing soil to dry out between watering 🌱
  • Prune after flowering to encourage bushiness
  • Provide full sun for best aromatic and flowering display
  • Use well-draining soil to prevent overwatering issues
  • Apply organic compost annually for healthy growth

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
  • Don’t prune in late fall or winter ❌
  • Refrain from using heavy, clay soils without amendments ❌
  • Avoid excessive fertilizing, which can reduce aroma ❌
  • Don’t neglect proper spacing to prevent fungal diseases ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Fragrant herb borderSilver-foliaged groundcoverHerbaceous edging

Companion Plants

Lavender Rosemary Sage Thyme

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Magic Carpet Thyme questions

What zones can Magic Carpet Thyme grow in?

Magic Carpet 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 Magic Carpet Thyme deer resistant?

Yes β€” Magic Carpet Thyme is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Magic Carpet Thyme bloom?

Magic Carpet Thyme typically blooms in early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Magic Carpet Thyme need full sun?

Magic Carpet Thyme does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Magic Carpet Thyme drought tolerant?

Yes β€” once established (usually after the first full season), Magic Carpet Thyme handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Magic Carpet 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.

Download Sow on the App StoreGet Sow on Google Play