Creeping Thyme Plants for Sale
14 products
Creeping thyme makes a fragrant, flowering carpet for sunny paths, rockeries, gravel and the gaps between paving. Choose from 6, 24, 48 and 60 plant packs of wild thyme (Thymus serpyllum), Thymus praecox in purple and white, 'Red Carpet' and variegated thyme. Free tracked delivery across 25 EU countries.
Which creeping thyme should I choose?
All of these are low, spreading thymes that like sun and sharp drainage. Pick by flower colour and where you want them.
| Thyme | Look | Typically flowers | Height | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thymus serpyllum (wild thyme) | Purple-pink flowers | June–August | About 5–10 cm | Lawn alternatives, paths, banks |
| Thymus praecox 'Purple Beauty' | Purple flowers | June–August | About 5–10 cm | Rockeries, gravel, edging |
| Thymus praecox 'Albiflorus' | White flowers | June–August | About 5–10 cm | Pale, cool-coloured carpets |
| Thymus 'Red Carpet' | Red-pink flowers | June–August | About 5–10 cm | Bold colour between paving |
| Thymus 'Tricolour' | Variegated leaves | Summer | About 10–15 cm | Leaf colour all year |
Flowering time and height vary with site and weather.
How many creeping thyme plants do I need?
Space plants 20–25 cm apart, which takes roughly 16 to 25 per square metre. A pack of 24 covers roughly 1 to 1.5 square metres, 48 around 2 to 3, and 60 around 2.5 to 4.
Planting and care
Thyme needs full sun and free-draining soil; in heavy ground, dig in grit or plant on a raised bank. Plant in spring or early autumn and water until established. Trim lightly after flowering to keep plants tight. Bees visit the flowers in summer, and light foot traffic is usually fine once plants have knitted together.
Frequently asked questions
Does creeping thyme come back every year?
Yes. Creeping thyme is a hardy, evergreen to semi-evergreen perennial. It dislikes waterlogged winter soil more than cold.
Can I plant creeping thyme between paving stones?
Yes. It tolerates light foot traffic and releases scent when stepped on. Plant into gaps filled with gritty soil in full sun.
Can creeping thyme replace a lawn?
For small, sunny, lightly used areas, yes. It is not suited to heavy foot traffic or shade.
Does it grow in shade?
Poorly. Thyme needs a sunny spot. For shade, see our vinca and shade garden plants.
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