Common Name

Thyme

Scientific Name

Thymus

Habit

Small evergreen perennials and shrubs that grow wild in Europe and Asia. Small oval to linear leaves, and pink, purple or white flowers in whorled clusters. Highly aromatic, with scents ranging from caraway to eucalyptus to lemon. There are over 350 different kinds of thyme.

Hardiness

Hardy to zone 4

Soil & Site

Sharp drainage; tolerates poor soil. pH 6.3. Full sun to partial shade. Can get root rot if too wet.

History & Lore

"I know a bank whereon the wild thyme blows,
Where oxlips and the nodding violet grows
Quite over-canopied with luscious woodbine,
With sweet musk-roses, and with eglantine:
There sleeps Titania some time of the night,
Lull'd in these flowers with dances and delight"
-A Midsummer-Night's Dream

Thyme's medicinal use goes back to 2000 B.C. Its name may come from the Greek word for courage, or the word meaning, "to fumigate"; it was once burned in homes to get rid of stinging insects. It was once believed that fairies made their homes in beds of thyme, and gardeners of old set aside special patches for them. In the Middle Ages, it represented chivalry.

Thyme is also associated with death; the souls of the dead were said to rest in the flowers and sprigs of thyme were worn or added to a ritual drink when communing with the departed.

Suggested Uses

Culinary      

Thyme mates well with almost everything, especially hearty soups and stuffings, red meat and game, and the usual Mediterranean standbys: red wine, garlic, and olive oil. It is an essential ingredient of herbs de Provence and bouquet garni. Thyme retains its flavor well in slow-cooked dishes such as casseroles and stews, and both flowers and leaves can be used. Lemon thyme is best with lighter fare such as fish and creamy soups.

Health

Thyme is rich in thymol, which is a strong antiseptic, antifungal, and oral hygiene agent. It is maily used as a tea for respiratory infections. Research indicates that thyme has a tonic effect that retards the aging process, so this brew may be worth its bitter bite. A strong infusion makes a good gargle for throat and gum infections, and thrush.

Fun Facts

Some British still hold an ancient superstition that bringing thyme into a house will bring death or illness to a family member.

The scent of thyme has reported to have been detected at haunted sites.

Add thyme to lavender to use as a moth repellent.

The leaves and flowers make lovely sachets and can be added to potpourri.