Lemon thyme (Thymus x citriodorus) emits a light lemony scent and taste—perfect for seasoning lemon-loving recipes such as roast chicken or grilled fish, and it makes a refreshing addition to iced tea. With its mat-like, prostrate shape, lemon thyme works equally well in the rock garden and as groundcover. Its citrusy oil wards off mosquitos and other pests in the garden, and it repels deer. Lemon thyme is best used fresh for cooking.

Sun Exposure

• Full to partial sun (six to eight hours)

Soil pH

• 6.5 to 8.5

Hardiness Zones

• Hardy in zones 5 to 9, evergreen above zone 8

Spacing

• Plant 12 to 24 inches apart

Moisture

• Keep moist after planting until roots are established
• Once established water 1 inch every 1 1/2 to 2 weeks

Notes

• Grows to 6 to 12 inches tall by 12 to 18 inches wide
• Repels pests, attracts bees
• Can tolerate light foot traffic
• Enjoyed equally as a culinary or an ornamental plant

Have you grown Lemon thyme plants? Are they easy to tend and harvest? Please tell us about your experiences growing Lemon thyme.