Thymus praecox 'Coccineus' - creeping thyme - organic perennial ground cover

Thymus praecox 'Coccineus' - Aromatic Ground Cover with Vibrant Bloom

Thymus praecox 'Coccineus', commonly known as Creeping Thyme 'Coccineus', is a beautiful, low-growing perennial plant that is excellent as ground cover. This thyme variety is prized for its compact growth, fragrant foliage, and profuse display of deep pink flowers. It is a versatile plant that thrives in both ornamental gardens and herb or rock gardens.

Features

• Size and Shape: Thymus praecox 'Coccineus' remains low, growing to a height of only 5 to 10 cm. The plant spreads as a dense mat of small, aromatic leaves, making it ideal for covering bare spots in the garden or growing between stepping stones.

• Foliage and Color: The leaves are small, oval, and gray-green in color. They emit a delightful fragrance, especially when touched or crushed, adding to the sensory experience in the garden.

• Flowering: From June to August, Thymus praecox 'Coccineus' is covered with an abundance of small, deep pink to purple flowers. These blooms attract bees and other pollinators, making this plant a valuable addition to an ecologically friendly garden.

Benefits as a Garden Plant

• Ground Cover: Due to its low, spreading growth, Thymus praecox 'Coccineus' is an excellent ground cover. It effectively suppresses weeds and keeps the soil cool and moist.

• Drought Tolerant: This thyme variety is particularly resistant to dry conditions, making it ideal for rock gardens or dry, sandy soil. Once established, it requires little water.

• Hardy and Evergreen: Thymus praecox 'Coccineus' is fully hardy and retains its leaves throughout winter, providing evergreen interest in the garden during the colder months.

Planting Advice

Thymus praecox 'Coccineus' prefers a sunny location and well-drained soil. It thrives in rocky gardens, between stepping stones, or along edges where it can spread out into a colorful carpet. Pruning the plant after flowering helps maintain its compact form and encourages dense growth.

Summary: Thymus praecox 'Coccineus' is a low-growing, aromatic ground cover that is a beautiful addition to any garden. With its vibrant flowers, fragrant foliage, and drought tolerance, this thyme is a versatile and low-maintenance plant that offers both visual and sensory appeal.