perennial

Culinary Thyme

Thymus vulgaris 'Culinary Thyme'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Low

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Mediterranean

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Culinary Thyme is a perennial herb known for its flavorful leaves, widely used in cooking. This cultivar is notable for its high essential oil content, making it especially aromatic and flavorful.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Thyme adds fragrant greenery and attracts pollinators to your garden.

Its aromatic leaves are perfect for culinary use and natural remedies.

Supports beneficial insects and promotes biodiversity.

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

Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity for root development.
Transplant seedlings when they are 2 inches tall, after last frost.
Prune lightly after flowering to promote bushy growth.
Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Harvest leaves once plants are established and growing vigorously.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry between watering 🌱
Prune regularly to encourage dense growth
Provide full sun for optimal flavor and aroma

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t fertilize excessively; thyme prefers lean soil
Refrain from cutting into woody stems, which can damage the plant

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 borderLow-growing groundcoverScented rock garden

Companion Plants

Rosemary Sage Lavender Oregano Marjoram

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Culinary Thyme questions

What zones can Culinary Thyme grow in?

Culinary Thyme is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Culinary Thyme deer resistant?

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

When does Culinary Thyme bloom?

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

Does Culinary Thyme need full sun?

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

Is Culinary Thyme drought tolerant?

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