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Description
Sabulina Rubella, also known as Creeping Thyme, is a species of flowering plant in the mint family Lamiaceae. This evergreen herb is native to Europe and Asia, and it is widely used as a ground cover due to its attractive foliage and flowers. Sabulina Rubella is a low-growing plant that reaches a height of about 3 to 6 inches (7-15 cm) and spreads up to 18 inches (45 cm) wide. It is highly tolerant of drought and can grow in a wide range of soils, making it an excellent choice for rock gardens, borders, and containers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Sabulina |
| Species | Rubella |
Appearance
Sabulina Rubella has small, oval-shaped leaves that are green or grayish-green in color. The leaves are about 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) long and have a slightly hairy texture. The plant produces tiny, tubular-shaped flowers that are pink, lavender, or white in color. The flowers bloom from late spring to early summer and attract bees and butterflies. Sabulina Rubella has a pleasant, aromatic scent that is reminiscent of thyme and is often used in cooking and aromatherapy.
Care Guide
Sabulina Rubella is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your Sabulina Rubella healthy:
- Water: Sabulina Rubella is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and less frequently during the winter.
- Fertilization: Sabulina Rubella does not require fertilization. However, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring to promote healthy growth.
- Soil: Sabulina Rubella prefers well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline. If your soil is heavy or has poor drainage, amend it with sand or perlite to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: Sabulina Rubella prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy and weak.
- Hardiness Zones: Sabulina Rubella is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sabulina Rubella is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:
- Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that can be caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing leaves, and a foul smell. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not overwater the plant.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, sap-sucking pests that can cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. To control spider mites, spray the plant with a solution of neem oil and water.
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can suck the sap from the plant and cause distorted growth. To control aphids, spray the plant with a solution of water and dish soap.
Habitat
Sabulina Rubella is native to Europe and Asia and can be found growing in rocky, mountainous areas. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. Sabulina Rubella is commonly used as a ground cover in rock gardens, borders, and containers.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sabulina Rubella a good plant for ground cover?
A: Yes, Sabulina Rubella is an excellent choice for ground cover due to its low-growing habit and attractive foliage and flowers.
Q: Can Sabulina Rubella grow in containers?
A: Yes, Sabulina Rubella can grow in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container has drainage holes.
Q: Does Sabulina Rubella require fertilization?
A: No, Sabulina Rubella does not require fertilization. However, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring to promote healthy growth.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases of Sabulina Rubella?
A: Some common pests and diseases of Sabulina Rubella include root rot, spider mites, and aphids.
Related Plants
- Thymus serpyllum (Wild Thyme)
- Origanum vulgare (Oregano)
- Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary)
- Mentha spicata (Spearmint)
References
- “Sabulina rubella.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c760.
- “Creeping Thyme.” National Gardening Association, garden.org/plants/view/1180/Creeping-Thyme-Sabulina-rubella/.
- “Sabulina rubella.” Plant Care Today, plantcaretoday.com/sabulina-rubella-creeping-thyme.html.
