Silver thyme (Thymus  × citriodorus 'Argenteus') TY-mus ex sih-tree-oh-DOOR-us Synonyms:  T. vulgaris 'Argenteus' Genus:  Thymus This plant is an elegant addition to an herb or ornamental garden. It has lemon-scented green leaves edged in silver and produces lilac flowers in early summer. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Thymes produce carpets of blossoms in shades of pink, purple, or white. They are native to dry grasslands of Eurasia, and most thrive in any dry, well-drained spot. Patios, walks, rock gardens, stone walls, and pond borders all benefit from the creeping, mounding, and cascading habit of thyme. Prostrate species spill gracefully over stone walls and can be grown between pavers where occasional foot traffic releases their distinct aroma. Some thymes are used for cooking and making tea, and all species ornament herb gardens or formal areas. Thymes are well-loved by bees and butterflies. Care:  Grow in well-drained and average, neutral to alkaline soil in full sun. Shear in early spring and lightly trim back after flowering. Propagation:  Divide or mound-layer in spring or fall, take softwood cuttings in early summer and semi-ripe cuttings in mid- to late summer. Sow seed in spring; thymes are slow to germinate and hybridize regularly. Problems:  Gray mold, root rot.

Overview

Height 6 in. to 12 in. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun Only Moisture Dry to Medium Maintenance Low Characteristics Attracts Butterflies, Fragrant Foliage, Showy Flowers, Showy Foliage Bloom Time Early Summer, Summer Flower Color Purple, White Foliage Color Variegated Foliage Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Ground Covers, Naturalizing, Suitable as Annual, Waterside Style Cottage Garden, Herb Garden, Formal Garden, Rock Garden Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Tolerance Deer Tolerant, Frost Tolerant Type Herbs