Mother-Of-Thyme, Creeping Thyme
Thymus Praecox Arcticus
Overview
Thymus praecox 'Arcticus', commonly known as Creeping Thyme or Mother-of-Thyme, is a low-growing perennial hardy in zones 2-9. It reaches up to 3 inches tall, with a spread up to 18 inches, exuding a pleasant scent when trodden upon. Its tiny, oval leaves and vibrant purple flowers thrive in full sun. Ideal as a ground cover or between pavers, it demands well-draining soil and minimal maintenance once established.
Sun Full, HalfWater Low, Very LowZones 5–10Type Ground cover, Herb, PerennialClimate Temperate
Culture
- Sun
- Full, Half
- Water
- Low, Very Low
- USDA zones
- 5–10
Shape & size
Classification
- Type
- Ground cover, Herb, Perennial
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Climate
- Temperate
See full data, regional cultivation notes, and design tools. Build a client presentation around this plant.
Start your 14-day trialPhotos (25)
























Photographs by 3 contributors
- Piotrus, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
- cultivar413 from Fallbrook, California, CC BY 2.0 · source
- David J. Stang, CC BY-SA 4.0 · source
Related plants

Herb
African Blue Basil
Ocimum Basilicum 'African Blue'
FullUSDA 8–10

Shrub
Alpine Mint Bush
Prostanthera Cuneata
FullUSDA 8–10

Amazel Basil® Sweet Italian Basil
Ocimum basilicum
Full

Perennial
Anise- Scented Sage
Salvia Guaranitica
FullUSDA 9–10

Ground cover
Anne Greenway Dead Nettle
Lamium Maculatum 'Anne Greenway'
HalfUSDA 3–8

Annual
Annual Lion's Ear
Leonotis Nepetifolia
FullUSDA 8–10