perennial

Japanese Thyme

Thymus quinquecostatus

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

6 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Japan, Korea, China

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Thymus quinquecostatus is a compact, aromatic perennial shrub with small, evergreen leaves and tiny, clustered flowers that are typically purple or pink, forming dense mats or low-growing ground cover. This species is notable for its intensely fragrant foliage used in culinary and medicinal applications, and its ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides aromatic foliage and attractive purple flowers, adding scent and color to gardens.

Useful culinary herb, drought-tolerant, and low-maintenance.

Supports pollinators and beneficial insects in the garden.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring.
Water lightly after planting to settle soil.
Place in full sun for best growth.
Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding after 4 weeks.
Pinch back in early summer to encourage bushiness.
Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water sparingly once established 💧
Prune after flowering to promote bushiness ✂️
Mulch to conserve moisture and prevent weeds
Fertilize lightly in spring with organic compost

Don't

Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
Allow soil to stay soggy ❌
Skip pruning which encourages leggy growth ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Harvest
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Fragrant herb borderSilver-foliaged groundcoverDrought-tolerant edging

Companion Plants

Lavender Rosemary Sage Oregano Thyme itself

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Japanese Thyme questions

What zones can Japanese Thyme grow in?

Japanese 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 Japanese Thyme deer resistant?

Yes — Japanese Thyme is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Japanese Thyme bloom?

Japanese Thyme typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Japanese Thyme need full sun?

Japanese Thyme does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Japanese Thyme drought tolerant?

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