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?
How fast does elfin thyme spread?
Can you walk on elfin thyme?
Does creeping thyme like sun or shade?
Does creeping thyme die in winter?
Is creeping thyme poisonous to dogs?
Will creeping thyme kill other plants?
Will creeping thyme choke out weeds?
Does creeping thyme attract bugs?
Why is my elfin thyme dying?
Can you mow over creeping thyme?
Does creeping thyme repel mosquitoes?

Is Elfin thyme the same as creeping thyme?

Elfin creeping thyme plant is as cherubic as its name implies, with small glossy, green aromatic leaves and teeny weensy purple or pink blossoms. Keep reading for information on elfin thyme care.

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!

Does creeping thyme like sun or shade?

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 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.

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.

Why is my elfin thyme dying?

The thyme plant grows well in slightly dry soil. It can develop root rot or mildew problems if it's kept too wet. As the roots suffocate and die in wet soil, the foliage will also begin to die back. Drought and overly dry foliage can also cause dieback, although usually the whole plant declines at the same rate.

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.