Basil thyme (Clinopodium acinos)
Care, watering, light and tips for Basil thyme on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Lamiaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
About Basil thyme
Clinopodium acinos, commonly known as Spring Savory, is a small aromatic herbaceous plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family. It produces delicate purple or pink flowers in summer, making it ideal for rock gardens, path edges, or as a groundcover in low-maintenance gardens. Its foliage releases a pleasant minty aroma when brushed.
Native range
Europe and temperate Asia
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal flowering and compact growth. It is drought-tolerant once established, so watering should be moderate, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. It prefers well-drained soils, even poor or calcareous ones, and a common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Basil thyme
- Warning signs
- Wilted or yellowing leaves, limp stems, lack of growth.
- First aid
- Check watering; if dry, water thoroughly. If waterlogged, drain and improve soil. Move to partial shade if in direct sun.
- What kills it
- Overwatering (root rot) or prolonged drought. Also intense direct sun in hot climates.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted or stems dry. Act quickly.