Thymus pulegioides L.
Large Garden
Large thyme is a native, aromatic dwarf subshrub, more robust and looser than common wild thyme, forming low spreading mounds typically 5–25cm tall. Its sprawling to semi-upright stems are sharply four-angled with hairs concentrated on the corners, and the small leaves give off a strong, sometimes lemony thyme scent when bruised.
About
Large thyme is a native, aromatic dwarf subshrub, more robust and looser than common wild thyme, forming low spreading mounds typically 5–25cm tall. Its sprawling to semi-upright stems are sharply four-angled with hairs concentrated on the corners, and the small leaves give off a strong, sometimes lemony thyme scent when bruised. Rounded heads of pinkish-purple, two-lipped flowers appear through the warmer months of summer.
It favours dry, sunny, well-drained ground, growing on chalk and limestone grassland, sandy heaths, dunes and other short, open swards on lime-rich or sandy soils. Like its relatives it is a magnet for pollinators, with the flowers heavily visited by bees, butterflies and hoverflies, making it a valuable nectar source on species-rich grassland. It is well suited to rock gardens, sunny banks, green roofs and calcareous wildflower meadow mixes.
Also known as
Large Thyme · Large Wild Thyme · Large-garden · Lemon Thyme · Wild Thyme
Synonyms
Thymus chamaedrys pulegioides · Thymus pseudoserpyllum · Thymus quartziticus · Thymus serpyllum adscendens · Thymus serpyllum pseudoserpyllum · Thymus varians
Beta — under active development. This catalogue is still being built and accuracy-checked. The information here (including plant identifications, British native status, soil and sun/shade preferences) is provided in good faith for general guidance only and may contain errors or omissions. It must not be relied upon on its own — please confirm details with us before making planting, specification, foraging or purchasing decisions, and never eat or medicinally use any plant based on this catalogue alone, as some species are toxic. To the extent permitted by law, Phoenix Amenity Supplies accepts no liability for any loss arising from use of this information.