What Is Elfin Thyme Information On Elfin Creeping Thyme Plant

Primarily used as a ground cover, Thymus serpyllum 'Elfin' (Creeping Thyme) is a dwarf, aromatic sub-shrub forming a tight cushion of tiny, rounded, gray-green leaves. Blooming profusely from early to mid summer, it features clusters of tiny, lavender-pink flowers. Rich in nectar, they attract butterflies.

Is Elfin thyme the same as creeping thyme?

Thymus serpyllum is also known by the names Breckland thyme, mother-of-thyme, wild thyme, mauve creeping thyme, pink chintz or creeping thyme. Of the two varieties of creeping thyme generally sold as Elfin, serpyllym has the brighter colored flowers which are generally lilac to purple or pink.

How fast does elfin thyme spread?

"Elfin" (Thymus praecox arcticus "Elfin"), hardy in USDA zones 4 though 8, is among the slowest-growing thymes of all. Its diminutive leaves form a dense cushion 1 to 2 inches tall, perfect for your tiniest spaces, as it spreads barely 6 inches its first two years.

Can you walk on elfin thyme?

Can you walk on thyme, like you could turf grass? Yes, once it's established, but not too much, especially when dry. But make a path with stones or pavers for high traffic areas. And when you do walk on it, enjoy the smell that rises from your feet!

How do you care for creeping thyme?

Although this ground cover prefers well-drained lightly textured soils, it will grow quite well in less than desirable medium and thrive from sun to light shade environments. Soil should be kept moist but not wet, as the growing creeping thyme plant is susceptible to root drowning and edema.

Does creeping thyme die in winter?

Winter Care

Depending on your location, creeping thyme will either remain evergreen or it will lose its leaves and some stems will die over the winter. You don't need to prune it, but to protect it as much as possible you can cover it with sand or gravel over the winter.

Is creeping thyme poisonous to dogs?

Safe Herbs for Dogs

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) and creeping or wild thyme (Thymus serpyllum) are drought-tolerant evergreens that are safe for dogs and bloom in the spring and early summer. ... Rosemary and creeping thyme grow best in full sun but will also grow in bright shade.

Will creeping thyme choke out weeds?

Red creeping thyme adds appeal to your landscape during springtime, however they are most gorgeous throughout summer as they burst open in stunning crimson flowers. They form a thick mat and are very effective in choking out weeds. ... It covers a large area rapidly and chokes out weeds.

Does creeping thyme attract bugs?

Creeping thyme is a vining plant that creates an excellent ground cover for rock and herb gardens. Even though they have different appearances all three can be used as culinary or medicinal herbs. It attracts beneficial insects.

Will creeping thyme kill grass?

1) Yes, you must remove all the turf grass before you plant thyme. You didn't say this, but I am assuming your existing lawn is Kentucky Bluegrass which is the typical turf in Denver. If not removed, KBG will act as a weed in your thyme and because it is rhizomatous, it will spread and take over.

Can you mow over creeping thyme?

Plant the thyme plugs about 8 inches (20 cm.) apart and water in well. Thereafter, say goodbye to fertilizing, thatching, regular watering, and even mowing if you so desire. Some people do mow the thyme lawn after flowers are spent, but it's okay to be a little lazy and leave the area as is.

Does creeping thyme repel mosquitoes?

Thyme. Thyme, including red creeping thyme (shown), possesses excellent mosquito-repelling properties. The secret is to crush the leaves to release the volatile oils. You can simply place crushed stems around outdoor seating areas or rub the leaves on skin or clothing.

Can you mow creeping thyme?

Creeping thyme rarely grows more than 2 inches tall, although its flower stems stand taller and can look scraggly and unkempt after blooming ends. A light mowing helps to improve creeping thyme's appearance and is quicker than hand pruning the plant.

Will creeping thyme kill other plants?

Will creeping thyme smother perennial plants if they are planted around them or will the perennial plants come up through the thyme? You should not have any issue with Creeping Thyme overtaking your perennials.

How do you prune creeping thyme?

Prune thyme in the early spring once you see new growth starting. Look for the new growth at the base of the plant or from the lower stems. Once you notice new growth, use small garden shears or scissors to trim off about ⅓ of the oldest, woodiest parts of the plant. Do not trim the new growth.

How long does it take for creeping thyme to grow from seed?

Germination will take place between 14-21 days. 4. The soil should be kept moist, but not too wet.

Why is my creeping thyme dying?

The most common reasons for thyme dying are: Thyme has root rot or fungal disease due to consistently damp soil. Thyme that is drooping and turning yellow because of damp soils or excess nitrogen in the soil due to additional fertilizer. Thyme plant that is turning brown, dry and dying back.

Does thyme grow back every year?

Perennial herbs like sage, thyme, lavender, chives and mint do not need to be replanted each year. ... Annual herbs can be cut back more severely since they do not overwinter and they will regrow quickly.

Is creeping thyme invasive?

Other Invasive Plants That Spread Tansy: This is a, large plant grown for the yellow flowers that dry well, but it will spread into its neighbors. Benefits of Elfin Creeping Thyme Plant . ... serpyllum) can be invasive in some situations.

Is Red creeping thyme safe for pets?

That said, red creeping thyme is one of the many plants that you can find in your garden, but is red creeping thyme safe for cats? Yes, the red creeping thyme is safe for cats.

Is creeping lemon thyme edible?

Lemon thyme is best used fresh. Chop lemon thyme leaves just before use and add at the very end of the cooking process before they lose flavor and color. ... Just like other thyme varieties, creeping thyme is edible with a flavor and aroma akin to mint when crushed or steeped for teas or tinctures.