Lemon Thyme

Lemon Thyme | Thymus x citriodorus | Citrus Thyme | Thymus ‘Lemon’

Lemon Thyme is a versatile, aromatic culinary perennial prized for its tiny, bright green leaves that deliver a refreshing, bright citrus scent and flavor, elevating everything from fish and poultry to roasted vegetables and marinades. This delightful herb is known for its low-growing, mat-forming habit and its ability to produce delicate clusters of nectar-rich pale pink or lilac flowers in midsummer. Its bright, zesty flavor and highly ornamental texture make it a standout choice for kitchen gardens, rockeries, border edging, and mixed herb containers. With its resilient nature and exceptional culinary value, Lemon Thyme offers gourmet appeal and a vibrant citrus fragrance with minimal maintenance.

Growing Lemon Thyme

Light: Full sun; thrives in bright, direct sunlight to produce the most robust growth and concentrated essential oils for the very best citrus flavor.

Soil: Light, well-drained soil; highly adaptable but requires excellent drainage, as it is highly susceptible to root rot in heavy, wet, or waterlogged soils. It performs best in sandy, rocky, or slightly alkaline mixes.

Water: Low to moderate; water regularly until established, then allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. It is highly drought-tolerant once mature.

Maintenance: Exceptionally low maintenance. Harvest leaves and stems frequently for kitchen use. Shear the plant back lightly after flowering to maintain a tight, compact shape, encourage a fresh flush of foliage, and prevent the center of the plant from becoming woody.

Wildlife: Highly attractive to bees and butterflies when flowering; naturally deer- and rabbit-resistant due to its strongly aromatic oils.

Hardiness: Perennial in USDA zones 5–9; requires excellent winter drainage to reliably survive in the colder regions of its hardiness range.

Shipping Info

Lemon Thyme plants are shipped as healthy young starts in 3" nursery pots. Allow 1–2 weeks after arrival for plants to recover from shipping and resume active growth before repotting or planting outdoors.