Lemon thyme (Thymus × citriodorus 'Lime')
Thymus × citriodorus 'Lime', or Lemon thyme, provides rich lemon-scented foliage. A low-maintenance, drought-tolerant perennial ideal for herb gardens.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
Thymus × citriodorus ‘Lime’, commonly known as Lemon thyme, is highly valued by gardening chefs for its distinctly rich, lemon-scented leaves. This bushy, woody-based herbaceous perennial offers fine texture and aromatic appeal throughout the growing season. Its small stature makes it versatile in the landscape, providing evergreen ground cover in milder regions.
Lemon thyme thrives when provided with excellent drainage and ample sunlight, reflecting its native preference for dry conditions. It requires minimal care once established, fitting perfectly into low-maintenance gardening schemes. Beyond the kitchen, the subtle pale pink flowers in midsummer attract beneficial pollinators, adding a delicate aesthetic touch.
Gardeners should utilize the fragrant foliage of Thymus × citriodorus ‘Lime’ fresh, as this maximizes its bright citrus notes in cooking. By managing its woody growth through occasional shearing, this cultivar ensures its lovely lime scent remains accessible and its compact form is maintained year after year.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Lamiaceae
- Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 5-8
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 0.25-0.5 ft
- Spread: 0.5-1 ft
- Bloom Time: July
- Bloom Description: Pale pink
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Water Needs: Dry to medium
- Maintenance Level: Low
How to Grow
For the best results, plant Lemon thyme in the spring after all danger of frost has passed, allowing it to establish roots before the heat of summer. It demands full sun and is happiest in loose, sandy, or rocky soils that provide excellent drainage, mirroring its native preference for dry conditions. Avoid rich, heavy, or persistently moist soils, as Thymus × citriodorus ‘Lime’ is highly susceptible to root rot in wet conditions.
Maintenance for this herb is generally low. Water only when soils are dry to medium; drought is tolerated once the plant is mature. Fertilization is rarely needed, as poor soil fertility is often preferred over rich inputs. To control the spread and limit the development of woody stems, cut back the stems as necessary after flowering or when harvesting foliage.
In mild winter climates, this perennial remains evergreen, offering year-round structure. Regular harvesting of the leaves throughout the season serves as a gentle form of pruning, keeping the bush tight and encouraging fresh, aromatic new growth. Ensure good air circulation around the plants to further mitigate any potential fungal issues.
Landscape Uses
The compact size and spreading habit of Lemon thyme make it an excellent choice for functional foreground planting. Utilize the aromatic ground cover capabilities of Thymus × citriodorus ‘Lime’ in rock gardens where sharp drainage is naturally provided. It works beautifully tucked along sunny border fronts or cascading over the edge of retaining walls.
As a culinary herb, planting Lemon thyme near the kitchen door ensures easy access for daily harvesting, whether for seasoning poultry or garnishing salads. Consider companion planting it near sun-loving Mediterranean herbs like Rosemary or savory varieties of Oregano, as they share similar dry soil and sun requirements. The low profile ensures it does not obscure more upright neighboring plantings.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
Noteworthy Characteristics
Thymus × citriodorus, commonly called lemon thyme is primarily grown as a culinary herb for its rich, lemon-scented leaves. It is an erect, bushy, woody-based perennial which typically grows 4-12” tall with upward branching stems. Tiny, narrowly ovate, dark green leaves have a strong lemon scent which reaches its aromatic peak just before flowering, making this cultivar, ‘Lime’, exceptionally fragrant. Flowers are attractive to bees.
Tolerances
- Deer
- Drought
- Dry Soil
- Shallow-Rocky Soil
- Air Pollution
Potential Problems
Thymus × citriodorus ‘Lime’ enjoys a reputation for being robust, suffering from no serious insect or disease problems under correct growing conditions. The greatest threat to Lemon thyme is improper moisture management. It is highly susceptible to root rot, particularly when grown in moist or poorly-drained soils. Always adhere to its dry to medium water needs and amend heavy garden soil heavily with grit or sand to ensure rapid water percolation away from the crown.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Lemon thyme suitable for?
This perennial is reliably hardy in USDA Zones 5 through 8.
How large does Lemon thyme grow?
Thymus × citriodorus ‘Lime’ achieves a low profile, typically growing between 0.25 to 0.5 feet tall, with a spread ranging from 0.5 to 1 foot wide.
What sun exposure does Thymus × citriodorus ‘Lime’ need?
This herb requires full sun exposure to develop the strongest flavor in its leaves and maintain compact growth.
When does Lemon thyme bloom?
This variety typically flowers in July, producing whorls of tiny, tubular, pale lilac or pale pink flowers.
Conclusion
Thymus × citriodorus ‘Lime’ is an indispensable addition to any sunny, dry garden space, rewarding the gardener with potent lemon fragrance and year-round greenery. Its low cultural demands and deer resistance solidify its place as a reliable favorite among culinary herbs. Before planting, confirm your soil drains quickly and check that you fall within USDA Zones 5-8 to ensure many seasons of aromatic harvest from your Lemon thyme.
Companion Planting
Due to its preference for dry, lean soil and full sun, Lemon thyme pairs naturally with other Mediterranean sun lovers. Plant it alongside Lavender, Greek Oregano, or upright Thymes. These companions share similar requirements for infrequent watering and excellent aeration, preventing competitive stress or over-care that could harm the relatively delicate root system of Thymus × citriodorus ‘Lime’.
Wildlife Benefits
While primarily noted for its culinary attributes, the small, pale pink blossoms of Lemon thyme are highly attractive to local pollinators, especially bees, during their bloom time in July. Planting groups of this herb can help support local bee populations during the summer slump. Furthermore, its low-growing, dense habit can provide minimal ground cover or shelter for small beneficial insects in the herb garden setting.
