COMMON THYME
Thymus vulgaris
The essential, versatile herb for every kitchen garden.
Thyme is attractive to bees when it's in full flower and is a great companion plant to strawberries, tomatoes, and potatoes.
It's a very low growing herb so it's perfect for areas where you don't want height - think under letterboxes or in window herb boxes as the 'filler' for the thriller, and spiller.
Common Thyme is a hardy, woody perennial with small, intensely aromatic grey-green leaves. It is a cornerstone of Mediterranean cooking.
It forms an upright, bushy shrub and produces delicate lilac or pale purple flowers in late spring and summer, which are highly attractive to bees.
Plant in gritty, well-drained soil in a full sun position. Common Thyme is exceptionally drought-tolerant once established.
Its woody stems and robust nature make it a reliable and long-lasting addition to the garden.
Common Thyme is a must-have for flavouring stocks, stews, roasts, and marinades.
It has a classic savoury, earthy, and peppery flavour.
Prune after flowering to encourage fresh, bushy growth and prevent the plant from becoming too woody.
A magnet for beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies.
PRICE: $6.00
SIZE: 5cm radius seedling
Common Thyme
Thymus vulgaris
Australian History
Common Thyme, native to the western Mediterranean, was brought to Australia with the First Fleet for its culinary and medicinal properties. It has adapted remarkably well to the Australian climate, particularly in dry, sunny areas, and is now a staple in gardens across the country.
Australian Uses
A true kitchen workhorse in Australia, Common Thyme is used extensively in cooking. Its robust, earthy flavour complements roast meats, poultry, stews, soups, and vegetable dishes. It's a key ingredient in 'bouquet garni' and is excellent for infusing oils and vinegars.
Australian Growing Guide
In Australia, Common Thyme is very easy to grow. It demands full sun and excellent drainage; it despises wet soil. Water sparingly once established. Plant in spring. Trimming the plant after it flowers will promote tender new growth and maintain a compact shape.
Australian Landscaping
Thyme is fantastic for Australian gardens, especially in rockeries, gravel gardens, or as a low border. Its drought-tolerant nature makes it suitable for water-wise landscaping. It thrives in pots and its fine-textured foliage contrasts well with other plants.
Australian Companion Plants
Common Thyme is a great companion plant. It grows well with Rosemary, Sage, and Lavender. It is also said to deter cabbage worms, making it a useful neighbour for brassicas, as well as eggplants, potatoes, and tomatoes.
Australian Disease Resistance
Thyme is exceptionally hardy and disease-resistant. The primary threat is root rot from overwatering or poor drainage. Ensuring the soil is light and drains freely is the key to a healthy plant. Good air circulation also helps prevent any potential issues.