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Description
Thymus Mongolicus, also known as Mongolian thyme or creeping thyme, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. This plant is native to Mongolia, China, and Russia and is widely used in traditional medicine for its therapeutic properties. Thymus Mongolicus is a low-growing plant that spreads horizontally and has small, thick leaves that are green-grey in color. The leaves are highly fragrant and release a pleasant aroma when crushed.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Thymus |
Appearance
Thymus Mongolicus is a low-growing plant that reaches a height of 5-10 cm and spreads horizontally up to 30 cm. It has small, thick leaves that are green-grey in color and release a pleasant aroma when crushed. The flowers of this plant are small, pink-purple in color, and bloom in late spring to early summer. The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive in dry and hot conditions.
Care Guide
Thymus Mongolicus is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:Water: This plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant only when the soil is completely dry.Fertilization: Thymus Mongolicus does not require fertilization. However, you can fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline. You can add sand or perlite to the soil to improve drainage.Sunlight: Thymus Mongolicus requires full sun to grow and thrive. Make sure the plant receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Thymus Mongolicus is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. You can prevent this by ensuring that the soil is well-draining. Some common pests that may affect this plant include spider mites, aphids, and thrips. You can control these pests by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Thymus Mongolicus is native to Mongolia, China, and Russia and is commonly found in dry and rocky areas. This plant grows well in full sun and can tolerate drought and heat. Thymus Mongolicus is widely used in traditional medicine for its therapeutic properties.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Thymus Mongolicus edible?
A: Yes, Thymus Mongolicus is edible and is used as a culinary herb in some countries.Q: Can Thymus Mongolicus grow in a container?
A: Yes, Thymus Mongolicus can grow in a container as long as it has well-draining soil and receives adequate sunlight.Q: How often should I water Thymus Mongolicus?
A: Water Thymus Mongolicus only when the soil is completely dry.Q: Is Thymus Mongolicus deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Thymus Mongolicus is deer-resistant and can be grown in areas with deer problems.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Thymus Mongolicus:- Thymus Vulgaris (Common Thyme)- Thymus Serpyllum (Wild Thyme)- Thymus Praecox (Creeping Thyme)- Thymus Herba-barona (Caraway Thyme)- Thymus Citriodorus (Lemon Thyme)
References
– Flora of China. (2017). Thymus mongolicus. Retrieved from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=200019301- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Thymus mongolicus. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e421- Plants for a Future. (n.d.). Thymus mongolicus – Ronniger Thyme. Retrieved from https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Thymus+mongolicus
