Micromeria leucantha
Care, watering, light and tips for Micromeria leucantha on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Lamiaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
About Micromeria leucantha
Micromeria leucantha, known as White Thyme, is a small aromatic plant endemic to the Canary Islands, valued for its delicate white flowers and compact foliage. Its creeping or slightly ascending habit makes it ideal for rockeries, path edges, or as a groundcover in xeriscape gardens, adding a wild and fragrant touch. It's an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardens or potted displays on sunny balconies.
Native range
Canary Islands
Care tips
It requires full sun exposure for optimal growth and abundant flowering. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings, as it is very sensitive to excess moisture. Use a well-draining substrate, preferably sandy or stony, similar to its natural habitat. Avoid waterlogging at all costs, as it is the most common mistake leading to root rot.
How to save a dying Micromeria leucantha
- Warning signs
- Leaves drying and falling from the base, woody stems without new shoots, plant wilting.
- First aid
- Move to a cooler spot with indirect light, check drainage, and water only when substrate is dry. If potted, consider repotting into a larger pot with light soil.
- What kills it
- Excessive root moisture (waterlogging), lack of direct sunlight, or heavy soil. It does not tolerate intense cold or frost.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots are not rotted and green stems remain. It's resilient but needs dry, sunny conditions.