French Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is a compact woody perennial prized for its low-growing habit and abundance of tiny pink-lavender blossoms. Ideal as a decorative groundcover, it forms dense mats of small evergreen foliage that add structure year-round. Perfect for borders, walkways, and rock gardens, French Thyme thrives in poor, rocky, and dry soils while providing valuable nectar for pollinators.
Features
• Hardy perennial groundcover with small evergreen foliage
• Tiny pink-lavender flowers attract bees and beneficial insects
• Thrives in rocky, sandy, or dry garden soils
• Excellent for edging, rock gardens, and pathway borders
• Drought tolerant once established in full sun
• Non-GMO Thymus vulgaris seed variety
Specifications
• Common Name: French Thyme
• Scientific Name: Thymus vulgaris
• Plant Type: Woody perennial groundcover
• USDA Zones: 5–9
• Flower Color: Pink to lavender
• Bloom Season: Late spring to early summer
• Height: 4–12 inches
• Spread: 12–24 inches
• Growth Habit: Low, mounding, spreading mats
• Heirloom: Yes
• GMO Status: Non-GMO
• Organic: Not certified organic
• Light Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Preference: Dry, rocky, or sandy well-drained soil
• Water Needs: Low once established
• Drought Tolerance: High
• Pollinator Value: Supports bees & beneficial insects
• Maintenance Level: Very low
• Plant Spacing: 10–14 inches
• Seed Viability: 2–3 years stored cool & dry
Planting Guide
• Start indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost or sow outdoors in spring.
• Press seeds lightly into soil surface; do not bury (needs light).
• Keep lightly moist until germination (14–28 days).
• Transplant outdoors after frost into full sun.
• Allow soil to dry between watering; avoid overwatering.
• Trim lightly after flowering to encourage dense growth.
• Perfect for dry, rocky slopes, borders, and groundcovers.
