Thymus herba-barona

Caraway Thyme is a low-growing, creeping, woody shrub that may be used as an ornamental groundcover or culinary herb. This evergreen grows from 3 to 6 inches tall and about 1 foot wide. The plant is a member of the Lamiaceae or Mint family. The leaves of the plant have the fragrance of caraway seeds. Some cultivars have the scent of nutmeg or lemon.

This perennial groundcover is native to Sardinia and Corsica. The leaves have essential oils that are harvested for use in foods, medicines, and perfumes.

The origin of the word "thyme" is from the Greek word thumos, which means "courage." In the past thyme, was thought to be an emblem of bravery. The word "thyme" may also have been derived from the Greek word thymos, meaning "perfume." The plants of this genus are typically aromatic. The species name, herba-barona, means "flavoring a baron of beef." The origin of the name reportedly comes from the English, who used this herb to flavor barons of beef. 

Caraway Thyme prefers full sun or well-drained, sandy, or rocky soils. Once established, it becomes drought tolerant. Pruning the stems should be done as needed to maintain appearance. The leaves should be harvested early or late summer before the flowers open and be dried quickly. It will remain evergreen through mild winters.

This groundcover or herb may be propagated by division, young shoot cuttings, or partially ripe wood cuttings. Propagation by seeds is challenging due to its erratic germination.

The woody stems form a prostrate mat. The leaves are tiny, pointed, glossy, and dark green. The flowers are clusters of tiny pink tubular blooms that appear in the summer.

The flowers of Caraway Thyme have rich nectar that attracts bees and butterflies. The plant is deer resistant and dry soils tolerant. This low-growing groundcover tolerates light foot traffic and adds interest between stepping stones or sprawled over rocks, ledges, or walls.  

Quick ID Hints:

• Leaves tiny and dark green
• The fragrance of caraway seeds
• Tiny tubular pink flowers
• Low-growing, prostrate groundcover

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:

This plant has no serious insect or disease problems. It may be susceptible to root rot if soils are wet or poorly drained.