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Public Plant Profile

Common Thyme

Thymus vulgaris

Category: Groundcover • Thyme

Common Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is a fragrant herb perfect for gardens and culinary use.

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Mature Height: 15 feet

Mature Width: 16 in

Bloom Color: Purple, Pink

Bloom Time: Early summer

Light: Sun

Zone: Zones 4-9

Maintenance: Low

Growth Rate: Moderate

Season of Interest: Multi-season

Foliage: Deciduous

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Bold Outdoors Verified Insight

Designed & Reviewed by

Josh Graber

Owner and Landscape Designer · Kansas State University · 25+ Years Experience

B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design – Kansas State University

25+ years of industry experience

Description

Common Thyme is a fragrant, bushy subshrub with woody bases. It features small, aromatic grey-green leaves and produces clusters of purple or pink flowers during early summer. This plant thrives in sunny locations and is a delightful addition to gardens.

Ideal Conditions

Thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Prefers dry to moderate moisture levels.

Soil Preferences

Requires well-drained soil with low to moderate moisture. Tolerates a range of pH levels.

Sun Needs

Sun

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

herb gardenborderground cover

Special Features

Aromatic foliageattracts pollinators

Wildlife Value

Attracts pollinators and provides habitat.

Resistance / Tolerance

Drought tolerant.

Notes from Our Designer

Ideal for culinary gardens and as a fragrant ground cover. Works well in rock gardens.

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Design Ideas Using This Plant

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Helpful Next Steps

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Common Thyme a good fit for Kansas City landscapes?

That depends on sun exposure, moisture, spacing, and how the plant will be used in the overall design. Bold Outdoors evaluates those practical conditions before recommending a plant broadly.

How should homeowners use this plant information?

Use the plant profile as a planning tool for size, conditions, and visual role, then connect it to the broader landscape design and installation plan for the property.

Next Step

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