Thyme

• French Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

Sun Requirements: Full Sun to Partial Shade

Water Requirements: Low to Moderate

Height: 6-12 inches

Description: French Thyme, also known as Common Thyme, is a versatile perennial herb characterized by its small, grey-green leaves and strong, earthy aroma. It blooms small, pale purple flowers in the summer, which attract pollinators. Widely used in cooking, French Thyme enhances the flavor of meats, stews, and soups. It is also an attractive addition to herb gardens, borders, and container gardens.

Planting Tips:

• Plant in well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH.
• Space plants about 12-18 inches apart.
• Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
• Prune regularly to prevent woodiness and promote bushier growth.

Ideal Season for Planting in Texas: Spring or Fall

Nativity to Texas: No

• Lemon Thyme (Thymus citriodorus)

Sun Requirements: Full Sun to Partial Shade

Water Requirements: Low to Moderate

Height: 6-12 inches

Description: Lemon Thyme is a fragrant, low-growing perennial herb known for its small, variegated green and yellow leaves that emit a lemony aroma. It produces small, lavender-pink flowers in the summer, attracting bees and other pollinators. This thyme variety is perfect for culinary use, adding a citrusy flavor to dishes, and also works well as a ground cover or in rock gardens.

Planting Tips:

• Plant in well-drained, sandy or loamy soil.
• Space plants about 12 inches apart.
• Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
• Trim back after flowering to maintain a compact shape and encourage new growth.

Ideal Season for Planting in Texas: Spring or Fall

Nativity to Texas: No

Summer Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

Sun Requirements: Full Sun

Water Requirements: Low; drought-tolerant once established

Height: 6–12 inches

Harvest Time: Continuous harvest once established

Description:
Summer Thyme is a classic culinary herb with small, gray-green leaves and a strong, earthy aroma. Its flavor is warm and savory, making it essential for roasted vegetables, meats, soups, and Mediterranean dishes. This hardy perennial thrives in heat, resists pests, and performs well in containers and raised beds.

Planting Tips:

• Plant in well-drained, sandy or rocky soil.

• Avoid overwatering; thyme prefers dry roots.

• Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape.

• Excellent for edging beds or growing in pots.

Ideal Season for Planting in Texas: Fall or Early Spring

Nativity to Texas: No

Orange Thyme (Thymus fragrantissimus)

Sun Requirements: Full Sun

Water Requirements: Low; drought-tolerant once established

Height: 8–12 inches

Harvest Time: Continuous harvest once established

Description:
Orange Thyme is a fragrant thyme variety prized for its citrus-scented leaves and mild, slightly sweet flavor. Ideal for poultry, fish, vegetables, and herbal teas, it also serves as an attractive groundcover. Pale pink flowers appear in summer and attract pollinators, making it both ornamental and edible.

Planting Tips:

• Grow in sharply drained soil to prevent root rot.

• Harvest lightly and often to encourage fresh growth.

• Trim back after flowering for compact form.

• Performs well in containers and herb gardens.

Ideal Season for Planting in Texas: Fall or Early Spring

Nativity to Texas: No