Thymus praecox 'Albiflorus'

– Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects

– Provides valuable nectar during summer bloom period

– Spring: new growth emerges as low, dense mats

– Late spring to early summer: flowering period

– Summer to fall: maintains evergreen foliage in warm climates

– Winter: semi-evergreen or dormant depending on zone

– Groundcover and between stepping stones

– Herb gardens

– Rock gardens

– Edging for walkways

– Drought-tolerant culinary plantings

– Tiny, oval, dark green leaves, closely packed along creeping stems

– Aromatic when crushed; used in herbal applications, though mild in flavor

– Evergreen to semi-evergreen depending on climate

– Small white flowers bloom in dense clusters along the creeping stems

– Blooming period: late spring to early summer (May–July)

– Subtle and elegant compared to more common pink or purple thyme varieties

– Flowers create a soft, shimmering effect across the mat

– Plant in spring or fall for best root establishment

– Space 8–12 inches apart for quick ground coverage

– Requires well-drained, sandy or gritty soil—tolerates poor, rocky soils

– Avoid clay or moisture-retentive sites; amend with sand or gravel if needed

– Plant crown level with the soil surface and water lightly after planting

– Shear back lightly after flowering to maintain form and encourage dense regrowth

– Trim back any woody or thinning patches in spring

– Tolerates occasional mowing if used between pavers or stepping stones

– Very drought tolerant once established

– Requires consistent watering during the first 2–3 weeks after planting

– After establishment, water only during extended droughts

– Avoid excessive moisture or overhead watering, which can cause root rot

– Full sun (6+ hours/day) is essential for compact growth and profuse blooming

– Tolerates very light shade but may become sparse and less fragrant

– Can be lightly harvested for culinary or ornamental use

– Best harvested in the morning before flowering for essential oil concentration

– Clip stems sparingly to preserve plant vigor and shape

– Typically not needed; thrives in lean soils

– Light compost or low-nitrogen fertilizer in spring if growth is weak

– Avoid overfertilizing—promotes legginess and reduces essential oil production

– Pollinated by bees, hoverflies, and butterflies

– Flowers are rich in nectar and support a wide variety of pollinators

– Sedum spurium – similar habit and drought tolerance

– Delosperma cooperi – low-growing succulent with vibrant blooms

– Sempervivum (Hens & Chicks) – contrast in texture and form

– Lavandula angustifolia – aromatic and Mediterranean in character

– Achillea millefolium – upright pollinator plant for layered interest