Species lemon thyme
yellow-green leaves and green stems

lemon thyme

Thymus citriodorus

Lemon thyme (Thymus citriodorus) is an evergreen herb of the mint family with an unmistakable lemon scent and flavor. These perennial plants produce either white or pink flowers. Its small, oval leaves are greenish-gray in color and have a strong lemon aroma. Lemon thyme can be used as a culinary herb for flavouring drinks, dressings, and marinades, as well as being used in teas for its aromatic and unique flavor. It is also beneficial to use as a medicinal herb, as its essential oils have antiseptic, antispasmodic, and anti-fungal properties. Lemon thyme is a straightforward herb to grow, as it is low maintenance and prefers well-drained soil.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Cutting,Division,Layering Propagation,Seed Propagation,Stem Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 8

Flowers:

Pale lilac Flowers In Summer

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Lemon thyme (Thymus citiodorus) should be watered when the top inch or 2 of soil feels dry. During the growing season, you should water this plant thoroughly about once a week. If rainfall is adequate (ideally 1 inch per week), you may not need to provide additional watering. In the winter months, you can water less often, generally only when the top few inches of soil is dry. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.

sunlight

Lemon thyme (Thymus citriodorus) benefits from at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. It is an evergreen perennial shrub that grows in full sun exposure. This plant species prefers full sun but will tolerate partial shade. It is best to give it as much direct sunlight as possible, especially in cooler regions. In hotter climates, areas of afternoon shade may be necessary to provide some relief from the intensity of the sun. During the winter months, the light intensity may be naturally reduced and the plant can benefit from a little less light. A south facing exposure is generally best for this plant species.

pruning

Lemon thyme (Thymus citriodorus) should be pruned in the Spring, just before new growth begins. Prune by removing any dead or diseased stems, and then cutting back the remaining growth to just above a pair of healthy leaves. This will help to keep the plant compact, as well as encourage branching and the production of new foliage. Aim to prune Lemon thyme by about 1-third to 1-half of its total size, and do this every 1 to 2 years.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Lemon thyme typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Lemon thyme typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map