Spanish Thyme (Plectranthus amboinicus) is a tropical ornamental herb admired for its bold succulent-like leaves and vigorous branching growth. Its thick textured foliage adds strong visual impact to container displays, herb borders, and indoor decorative pots. In warm seasons, small lilac-white blooms form along the stems, attracting bees and beneficial insects, enhancing ecological diversity in sunny gardens.

Features

• Thick, decorative, textured green leaves
• Attractive lilac-white flowers support pollinators
• Excellent for containers, indoor sun windows & herbaceous borders
• Fast-growing tropical ornamental herb
• Non-GMO Plectranthus amboinicus seed variety

Specifications

• Common Name: Spanish Thyme, Cuban Oregano, Indian Borage (ornamental variety)
• Scientific Name: Plectranthus amboinicus
• Plant Type: Tender perennial ornamental herb (annual in cold regions)
• USDA Zones: 9–11 perennial; 3–8 annual/container
• Height: 12–36 inches
• Spread: 18–36 inches
• Foliage: Thick, fuzzy, bright green textured leaves
• Flower Color: White to pale lilac spikes
• Growth Habit: Spreading succulent-like herb
• Bloom Season: Summer
• Heirloom: Yes
• GMO Status: Non-GMO
• Organic: Not certified organic
• Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Preference: Well-drained sandy or loamy soil
• Water Needs: Moderate; avoid overwatering
• Pollinator Value: Attracts bees & beneficial insects
• Maintenance Level: Low
• Plant Spacing: 18–24 inches
• Seed Viability: 1–2 years when stored cool & dry

Planting Guide

• Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before frost or sow outdoors in warm climates.
• Press seeds lightly into soil surface; cover very lightly (1/16–1/8 inch).
• Keep warm (70–80°F) and evenly moist until germination (14–28 days).
• Transplant after frost into full sun or partial shade.
• Water moderately; allow soil to dry slightly between watering.
• Ideal for containers; prune tips to encourage bushy growth.
• Protect from cold; overwinter indoors in bright light if needed.