Plant of the week

The Baltimore Sun

Creeping Thyme (Thymus sp.)

Searching for a low groundcover that deer don't eat? A sunny spot in your garden may be perfect for creeping thyme. This herbaceous perennial forms a mat about 3 to 5 inches tall by creeping stems. Tiny glossy leaves range from green to gold to variegated, depending upon species and cultivar.

Midsummer flowers of pink, lavender, red or white attract bees to their rich nectar. Creeping thyme requires excellent drainage, but, once established, this drought-tolerant groundcover makes a scented carpet underfoot.

Attractive between stepping stones, in rock gardens, as an edging plant, and on gentle slopes. Responds well to pruning, light foot traffic and occasional mowing.

[MARIAN HENGEMIHLE, MARYLAND COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SERVICE]

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