Thymus vulgaris

Also known as garden thyme, it is a cultivated form of the wild thyme which grows in mountainous regions of Mediterranean countries. This aromatic variety is a spreading, evergreen perennial which grows to a maximum height of about 9 in and which produces small mauve flowers in summer. As soon as the flowers have finished blooming, the plant should be trimmed to encourage new growth.

It prefers a sunny position and will grow on any well drained soil. The leaves fragrance is due to thyme´s essential oil, which is valued for both culinary and medicinal purpose.

Uses: The oil is used extensively by commercial manufacturers for scenting soap.
           Bunches of dried thyme flowers can be hung in linen closets to ward off insects. Tie a ribbon around the bottom of the stalks and hang them upside-down. Alternatively, remove the flowers from the stalks and place them in a small fabric sachet.

Medicinal: Its oil has been used to treat rheumatism, pounded thyme leaves mixed with a syrup are believed to help cure whooping cough, thyme tea will aid a fever, and it is said to have been used to heal leprosy.

Legends: Thyme was used by the Romans to add an aromatic flavor to cheeses and liqueurs.