Woolly Thyme

(Thymus pseudolanuginosus)

Woolly Thyme (Thymus pseudolanuginosus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Thymus pseudolanuginosus, commonly known as Woolly Thyme, is an evergreen perennial herb native to rocky, calcareous soil sites in Europe. It typically forms a dense mat reaching 0.3-0.5 feet (0.09-0.2 meters) in height and spreading 0.2-0.4 feet (0.06-0.1 meters) wide. Woolly Thyme is characterized by its gray-green foliage with a soft, hairy texture, giving it a woolly appearance. From late spring to early summer, it produces a profusion of small pink to purple flowers that are highly attractive to bees and other pollinators.

This plant is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and low-maintenance gardens. It is commonly used as a ground cover, in rock gardens, and between stepping stones where its fragrant leaves can be appreciated when crushed underfoot. Woolly Thyme prefers full sun and well-drained soil, and it is relatively pest and disease-free, although it can suffer from root rot in overly moist conditions. Its culinary uses are limited due to its hairy foliage, but it remains a popular ornamental variety for its texture and flowering habit.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.3-0.5 feet
  • Width: 0.2-0.4 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink, Purple
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to rocky, calcareous soil sites in the Mediterranean region

Other Names

Common Names: Thymes Woolly Thyme, Creeping Thyme, Mother-Of-Thyme, Norsk Timian, Islandstimjan

Scientific Names: , Thymus pseudolanuginosus, Thymus praecox subsp. britannicus, Thymus praecox subsp. arcticus, Thymus praecox var. arcticus, Thymus drucei, Thymus polytrichus subsp. britannicus, Thymus arcticus, Thymus britannicus, Thymus praecox subsp. penyalarensis

GBIF Accepted Name: Thymus praecox subsp. britannicus (Ronniger) Holub