Contents
Description
Thymus Citriodorus or Lemon Thyme is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is a small, bushy plant with a height of 15-20 cm and a width of up to 30 cm. Its leaves are small, about 1 cm long and 0.3 cm wide, and are green in color with a lemon scent. The plant produces pink or lavender colored flowers in early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Thymus |
Appearance
Lemon Thyme is a small, compact plant that can grow up to 20 cm tall and 30 cm wide. Its leaves are small, green, and oval-shaped with a lemon scent. The plant produces pink or lavender flowers in early summer. Its stems are woody and can become somewhat woody at the base. The plant is grown for both its culinary and ornamental value.
Care Guide
Lemon Thyme is a low maintenance plant that requires well-drained soil, full sun exposure, and moderate watering. It is best to plant it in the spring or fall. Lemon Thyme can be grown in pots or in the ground. It is important to water the plant regularly but not excessively, as overwatering can cause the roots to rot. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season. Lemon Thyme can grow in hardiness zones 5 through 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lemon Thyme is a hardy plant that is not usually affected by pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soil. Some common pests that can affect Lemon Thyme include spider mites, thrips, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Lemon Thyme is native to the Mediterranean region but can be found growing in many parts of the world. It prefers dry, rocky soil and full sun exposure. Lemon Thyme is commonly grown in herb gardens, rock gardens, and as a ground cover.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lemon Thyme be used in cooking?
A: Yes, Lemon Thyme is commonly used in cooking to add a lemony flavor to dishes.
Q: How often should Lemon Thyme be watered?
A: Lemon Thyme should be watered regularly but not excessively. It is best to let the soil dry out between watering.
Q: Can Lemon Thyme be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Lemon Thyme can be grown indoors in a sunny window.
Q: Can Lemon Thyme be propagated?
A: Yes, Lemon Thyme can be propagated by taking cuttings in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Thymus Vulgaris (Common Thyme)
- Thymus Serpyllum (Wild Thyme)
- Thymus Praecox (Creeping Thyme)
References
- “Thymus citriodorus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed November 29, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=f626.
- “Lemon Thyme.” Gardening Know How. Accessed November 29, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/thyme/lemon-thyme-care.htm.
- “Thymus citriodorus.” Plant Finder. Accessed November 29, 2021. https://www.plantdelights.com/products/thymus-citriodorus.
