Thymus serpyllum 'Coccineus' - Scarlet Creeping Thyme

🌿 Characteristics

Type: Herbaceous perennial
Common name: Scarlet creeping thyme
Scientific name: Thymus serpyllum 'Coccineus'
Color: Pink-red flowers, fine and aromatic green foliage
Mature height: 0.10–0.20 m
Mature spread: 0.25–0.45 m
Habit: Creeping and spreading, flowers in small dense spikes
Flowering period: June to September
Exposure: Full sun
Watering needs: Very low, drought tolerant
Soil type: Well-drained, light, tolerates poor and calcareous soils
Hardiness zone: Zone 3 to 9
Drought tolerance: Excellent, perfect for alpine gardens and rockeries
Nectar-producing plant: Yes
Attracts pollinators: Yes
Toxicity to animals: Non-toxic
Culinary use: Delicate aromatic foliage, mild herbaceous flavor with subtle spicy notes

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✂️ Care

Thymus 'Coccineus' is a hardy, self-sufficient alpine perennial, ideal for creating an ornamental and culinary flowering carpet in challenging environments. Its evergreen foliage and flowers provide colorful groundcover from early summer to fall.

Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact, dense shape. Water only at planting; once established, the plant thrives without additional watering and prefers dry, well-drained conditions.

Divide every four to five years in spring to revitalize clumps and encourage vigorous growth. Harvest leaves as needed for cooking, drying, or aromatic infusions.