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Description
Thymus Pulegioides, commonly known as Broad-leaved Thyme, is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family Lamiaceae. It is native to Europe and western Asia and widely cultivated in North America. The plant grows up to 30 cm in height and spreads up to 30 cm in width. It has small, oval-shaped leaves that are dark green and hairy on top and lighter in color underneath. The plant blooms in the summer with small, pink or lavender flowers that grow in clusters at the top of the stem. The flowers are a great source of nectar for bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Thymus |
Appearance
Thymus Pulegioides has small, oval-shaped leaves that are dark green and hairy on top and lighter in color underneath. The leaves are about 1 cm long and 5 mm wide. The plant grows up to 30 cm in height and spreads up to 30 cm in width. The stem is woody and grows in a creeping manner. The plant blooms in the summer with small, pink or lavender flowers that grow in clusters at the top of the stem. The flowers are about 6 mm long and have five petals.
Care Guide
Thymus Pulegioides is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for its care:- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch.- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization. If you want to fertilize it, use a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is not too rich. It can grow in sandy or rocky soil.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can also grow in partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Thymus Pulegioides can grow in hardiness zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Thymus Pulegioides is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by root rot if the soil is too wet. It can also be affected by aphids and spider mites. To prevent these pests, keep the plant healthy by providing proper care and pruning the affected parts.
Habitat
Thymus Pulegioides is native to Europe and western Asia and is widely cultivated in North America. It grows in rocky or sandy soil in open fields, meadows, and along roadsides. It is a common plant in herb gardens and is used for culinary and medicinal purposes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Thymus Pulegioides be grown indoors?
A: No, Thymus Pulegioides is an outdoor plant that requires full sun and well-drained soil.
Q: Is Thymus Pulegioides edible?
A: Yes, Thymus Pulegioides is edible and is used as a seasoning in cooking.
Q: Can Thymus Pulegioides survive in hot weather?
A: Thymus Pulegioides prefers moderate temperatures and can survive in hot weather if it is provided with enough water and shade.
Q: How often should Thymus Pulegioides be pruned?
A: Thymus Pulegioides can be pruned after the flowering period to maintain its shape and promote new growth.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Thymus Pulegioides:- Thymus Vulgaris (Common Thyme)- Thymus Serpyllum (Wild Thyme)- Origanum Vulgare (Oregano)- Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary)- Mentha Piperita (Peppermint)
References
– “Thymus Pulegioides.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c485.- “Thymus Pulegioides.” Plant Finder, www.plantdatabase.online/plants/thymus-pulegioides.- “Thymus Pulegioides.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/26664/i-Thymus-pulegioides-i/Details.
