Woolly Thyme

If you tread on Woolly thyme (Thymus pseudolanuginosus), not only will it not mind, it will reward you with a pleasant fragrance. This woody, creeping thyme is commonly used for groundcover, but also has medicinal uses. Its Latin name means “false-wool” as the plant has a dense, woolly appearance and texture that entices people to touch. Its mat-like growth spreads to 12 inches wide, but only about a half-inch tall.

Sun Exposure

• Full to partial sun (six to eight hours)

Soil pH

• 5.8 to 7.5

Hardiness Zones

• Hardy in zones 5 to 8

Spacing

• Plant 12 inches apart

Moisture

• Do not over-water
• Water only when to 3 inches of soil is dry

Notes

• Low and spreading, 3 to 4 inches tall by 12 to 18 inches wide
• Attracts butterflies, deer resistant
• Tiny, elliptical gray leaves with pink flowers
• Great for groundcover around paths and driveways

Do you grow Woolly thyme? Does it thrive in your climate? Please tell us about your Woolly thyme.