Elfin Thyme, or “Thymus praecox” is among one of the shortest flowering herbs used as a groundcover. The trailing habit makes it perfect for garden beds, borders, in between pavers and most famously in rock gardens. The plants only grow to a height of roughly 1 to 3 inches tall. They can handle light foot traffic and are pretty resilient.
Thymus Praecox / Elfin Thyme is a perennial herb that will grow quickly, forming a deep root system and will return yearly after frost. A few companion plants are Alyssum, Rockcress, Verbena Moss and Creeping Daisy.
Quick Facts
- Type: Groundcover
- Season: Perennial
- Color: Pink / Purple
- Height: 1″ – 3″ Tall
- Width: 12″ – 18″ spread
- Environment: Full Sun
- Zone: 3 – 9
- Notes: Used as a groundcover for rapid spreading. Attracts beneficial insects. Handles light traffic. Great for rock gardens.
Sowing The Seed
Elfin Thyme seeds can be sown indoors or directly outdoors. If you don’t mind transplanting this plant, sowing indoors, in peat pots is recommended. Sow your Mother of Thyme seeds directly to the surface of the soil, allowing direct light to reach them. Do not cover the seeds with soil. Transplant outdoors when the weather is warm and all danger of frost has passed. If sowing directly outdoors, scatter the seeds to the surface of the soil, on a calm day, allowing direct sunlight to reach them.
Growing Conditions
Elfin Thyme will enjoy an area that receives full sunlight for the majority of the day, but it can also tolerate partial shade as well. Sowing in temperatures of 68F to 75F is best. Mother of Thyme is not too picky when it comes to soil conditions and can adapt to sandy, poor or fertile conditions. Just be sure that the soil is well draining. To increase drainage, we recommend adding a light compost to areas containing hard, compact soil. Water daily with a light mist setting so that you do not disrupt the seeds.
Germination & Growth
Your seeds will begin to germinate within roughly 7 to 10 days after sowing. The plants will grow anywhere from 1 to 3 inches tall and can spread a good 18 inches wide or more. The plants can be spaced about 12 inches apart from one another. Once established, your Elfin Thyme plants will produce beautiful, lilac purple blooms throughout your garden. They can be used in rock gardens, along fences, walkways & driveways or around stepping stones & pavers.