Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
12 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate, drought-tolerant once established
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Mediterranean region
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Thymus citriodorus, commonly known as lemon thyme, is a fragrant herb with a lemon scent that is often used in cooking and landscaping. This cultivar is distinct for its citrus fragrance, making it a popular choice for culinary uses and aromatic gardens.
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 for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote root growth.
- Transplant young plants after the last frost, spacing 12 inches apart.
- Water deeply once a week during dry periods to encourage healthy growth.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced, organic fertilizer during the growing season.
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and full sun for vibrant foliage and fragrant blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water moderately, ensuring soil dries out between watering 🌱
- Prune after flowering to shape and promote bushiness
- Apply organic fertilizer monthly during the growing season
- Ensure ample sunlight for optimal growth
- Use well-draining soil to prevent root rot
Don't
- Overwater, leading to soggy soil ❌
- Avoid heavy fertilization that can burn roots
- Neglect pruning, which may cause legginess
- Plant in shady spots, as it prefers full sun
- Use poorly drained soil that retains excess moisture
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
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
Lemon Thyme questions
What zones can Lemon Thyme grow in?
Lemon Thyme is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Lemon Thyme deer resistant?
Yes — Lemon Thyme is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Lemon Thyme bloom?
Lemon Thyme typically blooms in early to mid-summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Lemon Thyme need full sun?
Lemon Thyme does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Lemon Thyme drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Lemon 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'
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
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Lemon 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.
