Thymus praecox 'Purple Beauty' - 9 cm (Thyme)

Common name: Purple Beauty Creeping Thyme

Description: This attractive low-growing thyme forms a dense carpet of tiny, aromatic, dark green leaves that hug the ground. In summer, the foliage becomes almost completely hidden beneath a stunning display of vibrant purple-pink flowers that create a spectacular mat of colour. The blossoms appear in such profusion that they transform the plant into a purple cushion, attracting numerous pollinators to the garden. After flowering, the evergreen foliage continues to provide interest, occasionally taking on purple tints in cooler weather. 'Purple Beauty' has a spreading, creeping habit that makes it perfect for softening the edges of paths, filling gaps between paving stones, spilling over walls, or as a flowering alternative to lawn in small areas. When walked upon or brushed against, the foliage releases a delightful aromatic fragrance.

Other benefits: aromatic foliage, drought resistant, deer resistant, erosion control, can be used as a lawn alternative

Wildlife attraction: bees, butterflies, hoverflies and other beneficial insects

Height & spread (approx.) at 10 years: 0.05m x 0.5m

Position: full sun; tolerates light shade but flowering may be reduced

Soil pH: adaptable to most soil types; prefers neutral to slightly alkaline conditions

Moisture: excellent drought tolerance once established; requires well-drained soil; cannot tolerate wet or waterlogged conditions

Winter hardiness: very hardy; cold hardy to -25°C