Lemon thyme (Thymus citriodorus)
Care, watering, light and tips for Lemon thyme on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Lamiaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
About Lemon thyme
Thymus citriodorus, commonly known as Lemon Thyme, is an aromatic perennial subshrub from the Lamiaceae family, notable for its small green leaves with a distinctive citrus scent and flavor. It forms compact, creeping mats, perfect for borders, rockeries, or as ground cover in herb gardens and pots. Its tiny pink or purple flowers appear in summer, attracting pollinators.
Native range
Southern Europe and the Mediterranean basin
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal growth and full development of its aroma. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings, as it is susceptible to waterlogging; it is quite drought-tolerant once established. It prefers well-drained, sandy or stony soils, with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. A common mistake to avoid is overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Lemon thyme
- Warning signs
- Yellow or brown, dry and brittle leaves, woody stems without new shoots, weak or absent citrus aroma.
- First aid
- Move to partial shade if in full sun, prune dry branches, water only when soil is dry to the touch.
- What kills it
- Overwatering (root rot) or poorly draining soil. Also lack of direct sun or intense sun without protection.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots are still firm and there are green stems. Provide good drainage and control watering.