Thyme Labyrinth: A Meditative Path of Fragrant Ground Cover

Walking the Ancient Pattern in a California Garden

At Lynne Blackman's Del Mar home, a seven-circuit classical labyrinth is lined with creeping thyme—chosen for its ability to handle ordinary foot traffic while releasing fragrance with every step. The shortest thyme, Thymus praecox arcticus 'Minus' (½ inch tall), forms a durable, aromatic path.

Creation Process

1. Plug trays ordered by mail from Richters (nurseries can also order flats).
2. Pattern drawn with powdered lime, sod removed, outlined with river cobbles.
3. Paths 2½ feet wide; 45-foot diameter.
4. Initial weeding intensive; eventually thyme dominates.

Experience

Family and friends walk the labyrinth meditatively; children race through. The thyme survives it all. "Now thyme is on my side," says Lynne.

A beautiful fusion of ancient symbolism and practical, fragrant ground cover.