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Description
Thymus Serpyllum Magic Carpet, also known as creeping thyme, is a low-growing herbaceous plant that belongs to the mint family Lamiaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia and is widely cultivated in North America as a ground cover plant. This plant is often used in rock gardens, borders, and as an edging plant. It produces tiny purple flowers that attract bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Thymus |
Appearance
The Thymus Serpyllum Magic Carpet is a low-growing perennial plant that typically grows up to 2-3 inches tall and can spread up to 18 inches wide. It has tiny green leaves that are arranged opposite each other on a slender stem. The leaves are aromatic and release a fragrant scent when crushed. In the summer, it produces tiny pink to purple flowers that bloom in clusters at the top of the stem.
Care Guide
The Thymus Serpyllum Magic Carpet is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for growing and maintaining this plant:
- Water: This plant requires moderate watering. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly alkaline with a pH between 6.5-7.5.
- Sunlight: This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Thymus Serpyllum Magic Carpet is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too moist. Here are some common pests and diseases that may affect this plant:
- Aphids: These small insects may infest the plant and suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to wilt and turn yellow.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests may spin webs on the plant and suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and dry out.
- Fungal Diseases: These diseases may affect the plant if the soil is too moist. Examples include root rot and powdery mildew.
Habitat
The Thymus Serpyllum Magic Carpet is native to rocky, mountainous regions of Europe and Asia. In the wild, it grows in well-drained soils and prefers full sun or partial shade conditions. It is commonly found in rock gardens, borders, and as an edging plant in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Thymus Serpyllum Magic Carpet deer resistant?
A: Yes, this plant is deer resistant.
Q: Can the Thymus Serpyllum Magic Carpet be grown indoors?
A: No, this plant is best grown outdoors.
Q: How often should I prune the Thymus Serpyllum Magic Carpet?
A: Prune the plant once a year in the spring after it has finished flowering to promote bushier growth and prevent it from becoming too leggy.
Q: Can the Thymus Serpyllum Magic Carpet be propagated by division?
A: Yes, this plant can be propagated by division in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Thymus Praecox
- Thymus Vulgaris
- Thymus X Citriodorus
- Thymus Herba-Barona
References
- “Thymus serpyllum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d940.
- “Creeping Thyme – Thymus Serpyllum – Fragrant Ground Cover.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/thyme/creeping-thyme.htm.
- “Thyme (Thymus Serpyllum).” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/23365/i-Thymus-serpyllum-i/Details.
