Albus Creeping Thyme

Albus Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum 'Albus') is a very hardy, evergreen groundcover that stays 5cm to 15cm high and spreads 30cm to 60cm wide. Its small rounded leaves are aromatic, and in summer a scattering of tiny white flowers covers the plant and draws bees. It is more an ornamental mat for rockeries, paths and low traffic lawn areas than a cooking herb.

Why you'll love it

• A dense, springy mat. It spreads into a low cushion that fills gaps between pavers and stepping stones.
• Aromatic foliage. Brush the leaves and they release the scent of thyme, which makes it a favourite for sensory gardens.
• Flowers that feed pollinators. Small white summer flowers attract bees and butterflies.
• Drought and frost tolerant. Once established it handles dry spells, heat, poor soil and cold winters with ease.
• A lawn alternative. In low traffic areas it makes a fragrant carpet that never needs mowing.

Where it works best

Rockeries and sunny beds. Plant 30cm apart so the mats meet within a season. It drapes happily over rocks and edges.

Between pavers and paths. Set plants into the gaps and let them knit together, taking only occasional footsteps.

Herb and sensory gardens. Pair it with lavender and other sun lovers where the scent is part of the pleasure.

Lawn alternative. Use it where foot traffic is light, and keep the soil sharply drained.

Growing Albus Creeping Thyme in Australia

Position and climate. A sunny position is essential for dense growth. It thrives in Mediterranean, warm temperate, cool temperate and dry inland gardens. In humid subtropical areas it dislikes warm, muggy summers, so give it very sharp drainage or grow it in a pot.

Soil. Free-draining soil, neutral to alkaline. Poor, gravelly or sandy ground suits it well, and a gravel mulch keeps the foliage clean and dry.

Water and feed. Mulch and water regularly for the first 12 weeks until the plant establishes. Once settled, it tolerates drought and frost and needs very little water.

Pruning. Clip it over after flowering to keep it fresh and to prevent bare patches from developing in the centre.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Albus Creeping Thyme as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. Tubes are the economical way to cover a large area, and a small plant spreads to a mat within a season or two. Plants travel well and settle within a few weeks of planting.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Browse all groundcovers
• Plants for rockeries
• Bee and butterfly friendly plants
• Groundcovers for between pavers and steppers

Common questions

Can I use it as a lawn?

As a lawn alternative in low traffic areas, yes. It forms a dense, springy mat, but it will not stand up to heavy use like a hard-wearing turf.

Is it a culinary thyme?

It is grown mainly for its aromatic foliage and flowers rather than for cooking. Treat it as an ornamental groundcover.

How quickly does it spread?

It reaches 30cm to 60cm wide. Planted 30cm apart, the mats usually meet within a season or two of good growth.