Lemon Thyme

(Thymus citriodorus)

Lemon Thyme (Thymus citriodorus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Thymus citriodorus, commonly known as Lemon Thyme, is an evergreen, mat-forming perennial herb with a delightful lemon scent, native to rocky, calcareous soils in the Mediterranean region. It is often found in scrub and open woodlands, where it thrives in full sun and well-drained soils. Lemon Thyme reaches a modest height of about 0.1 meters (3.9 inches) and spreads up to 0.3 meters (12 inches), creating a dense ground cover. Its small, oval leaves are highly aromatic, and it produces clusters of pink to lavender flowers from mid to late summer, which are highly attractive to bees and butterflies.

Lemon Thyme is valued for its culinary uses, as its leaves can be used fresh or dried to flavor dishes and herbal teas. The plant’s ornamental qualities and drought tolerance make it a popular choice for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and as a fragrant ground cover in hot, arid regions. It is also ideal for planting between stepping stones, in beds, and in containers. Lemon Thyme requires minimal maintenance, though it benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry spells and should be planted in well-draining soil to prevent root rot. It is generally pest-free but can be susceptible to fungal diseases in humid conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink, Purple
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Rocky, calcareous soils in the Mediterranean region

Other Names

Common Names: Citrus Thyme , Thym Citronné

Scientific Names: Thymus citriodorus , Thymus vivariensis , Thymus carolipaui , Thymus serpyllum var. citriodorus , Thymus serpyllum var. vulgaris , Thymus serpyllum var. aureus , Thymus aureus , Thymus citriodorus subsp. aureus , Thymus campestris var. citratus , Thymus lanuginosus var. citriodorus , Thymus serpyllum f. citriodorus

GBIF Accepted Name: Thymus citriodorus (Pers.) Schreb.