Contents
Description
Thymus Praecox Coccineus, also known as Creeping Thyme, is a low-growing perennial herb that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is a popular choice for ground cover due to its vibrant crimson flowers that bloom in summer. This plant is native to Europe and is commonly used for culinary purposes due to its aromatic and flavorful leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Thymus |
Appearance
The Thymus Praecox Coccineus plant has a mat-forming growth habit, with fine-textured leaves that are about 1/4 inch long. The leaves are green-gray in color and are arranged in opposite pairs along the stem. The plant’s flowers are small, tubular, and bright crimson in color. They appear in dense clusters during the summer months, and their sweet fragrance attracts bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Water
Creeping Thyme prefers well-drained soil and does not tolerate standing water. It is important to water the plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions.
Fertilization
Creeping Thyme does not require frequent fertilization. A light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth.
Soil
This plant thrives in well-drained, sandy or loamy soils with a neutral to alkaline pH level.
Sunlight
Creeping Thyme prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Creeping Thyme is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly-drained soils. Aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant, but these issues can be easily controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Creeping Thyme is native to Europe and can be found growing in rocky or sandy soils, meadows, and along roadsides. It is commonly used as a ground cover in rock gardens, borders, and container plantings.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Creeping Thyme be used for culinary purposes?
A: Yes, the leaves of Creeping Thyme are commonly used in culinary dishes due to their aromatic and flavorful nature.
Q: How often should I water my Creeping Thyme plant?
A: It is important to water the plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions.
Q: What pests are most commonly found on Creeping Thyme?
A: Aphids and spider mites can infest the plant, but these issues can be easily controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Q: What is the ideal pH level for Creeping Thyme?
A: This plant thrives in well-drained, sandy or loamy soils with a neutral to alkaline pH level.
Related Plants
- Thymus Serpyllum
- Thymus Coccineus
- Thymus Vulgaris
- Thymus Praecox
References
- “Creeping Thyme Plant Profile.” The Spruce, 2021, www.thespruce.com/creeping-thyme-plant-profile-4847563.
- “Thymus Praecox Coccineus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c676.
- “Creeping Thyme (Thymus Praecox).” Garden Design, 2021, www.gardendesign.com/plants/creeping-thyme/.
