Silver Thyme (Thymus vulgaris 'Argenteus') is a variegated form of common thyme with distinctive silver-edged leaves that catch light beautifully in the garden. The fragrance is the warm, savory thyme character familiar from the kitchen, perhaps slightly softer than the straight species. It forms a low, spreading mound that stays attractive through most of the year and produces small lavender-pink flowers in early summer that pollinators actively seek out.

Growing Information
Silver Thyme thrives in full sun and well-drained, even sandy or rocky soil. Like all thymes, it is drought-tolerant once established and suffers in wet, heavy conditions. Plants reach 6-12 inches tall and spread to 12-18 inches wide, forming a dense, aromatic mat. Trim lightly after flowering to maintain compact shape. In cold climates it may die back partially in winter but recovers well. An excellent edging plant, container herb, and garden companion.

Traditional Use
Thyme has been one of the most important culinary and medicinal herbs in European tradition for over two thousand years, appearing in the records of ancient Greek physicians and remaining a staple of the European folk herbal canon through the present day. Herbalists have traditionally valued the aromatic aerial parts, harvested at or just before peak flowering. Silver Thyme carries the same traditional character as common thyme with the added beauty of its variegated foliage.

Care on Arrival
Water gently upon arrival and allow to settle in a sunny spot for a day before transplanting. Silver Thyme is more delicate than the straight species - avoid overwatering during the establishment period. Transplant into well-drained soil after your last frost date. Do not bury the crown deeply. Excellent drainage is essential; thyme will rot in waterlogged soil. Once established it requires very little attention.

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Pair Silver Thyme with English Thyme for a thyme collection that covers both ornamental and culinary needs. Lemon Thyme adds bright citrus fragrance to the trio. For a complete aromatic Mediterranean herb garden, add English Lavender, Sage, and Hyssop.

At Zenobia's Garden, every plant is grown on our 8-acre farm in Perry County, Missouri - tended by hand with attention to soil health, plant vitality, and botanical integrity. We grow medicinal herbs because we believe in them, and we want the plants that leave our farm to thrive in yours. Questions about your order or your plants? Reach us at susan@zenobiasgarden.com - we're growers first, and we're happy to help.