Unpacking the Thyme Family Tree
Although both belong to the same genus, Thymus, wild thyme ($Thymus serpyllum$) and common thyme ($Thymus vulgaris$) are distinct species with different characteristics and applications. A common mistake is using them interchangeably, which can significantly alter the outcome of a dish or the look of a landscape. Wild thyme, also known as creeping thyme or mother of thyme, is famous for its ornamental value, while common thyme, sometimes called English or garden thyme, is a culinary powerhouse.
Growth Habit and Appearance
One of the most noticeable differentiators is how each plant grows. Wild thyme is a prostrate plant, meaning it spreads low to the ground and creates a dense mat of foliage. Its stems spread out via runners, making it an excellent groundcover for rock gardens, between stepping stones, or on sunny slopes where it can help control weeds and erosion. The leaves are small, rounded, and closely packed along the stems. Common thyme, on the other hand, has an upright, shrubby, and often woody growth habit, with mature plants resembling small bushes. The leaves are more elongated and pointed than wild thyme's and are arranged on woody stems.
Flavor Profile and Culinary Uses
Another significant distinction lies in their aroma and flavor. Common thyme is the superstar of the culinary world, offering a strong, savory, and earthy flavor with notes of pepper and mint. Its robust taste holds up well during long cooking times, making it a staple in stews, soups, and roasted meats. Wild thyme has a much milder, more subtle, and sometimes floral flavor. While edible, it is not typically used for intense cooking and is instead better suited for brightening up salads, garnishing cheese boards, or infusing teas. Using wild thyme in place of common thyme in a recipe will result in a less potent and more delicate flavor.
The Allure of Their Blooms
Both thyme varieties produce small flowers that are attractive to pollinators like bees, but their appearance and timing differ. Wild thyme creates a stunning, vibrant carpet of pink, magenta, or lavender blooms in late spring to early summer. This visual spectacle adds significant aesthetic appeal to gardens. Common thyme's flowers are subtler, typically pale pink to lilac, and appear on upright stalks above the foliage.
Comparison of Wild Thyme and Common Thyme
| Feature | Wild Thyme ($Thymus serpyllum$) | Common Thyme ($Thymus vulgaris$) |
|---|---|---|
| Growth Habit | Low-growing, creeping groundcover | Upright, bushy, and woody shrub |
| Leaf Shape | Small, rounded, and soft leaves | Elongated, pointed, and more rigid leaves |
| Flavor Intensity | Milder, more subtle, sometimes floral | Stronger, savory, with peppery notes |
| Culinary Use | Garnish, salads, teas | Stews, roasts, soups, sauces |
| Landscape Use | Groundcover, between pavers, rock gardens | Border plant, herb gardens |
| Floral Display | Vibrant, profuse pink/magenta carpet | Subtler, pale pink/lilac flowers on stalks |
Choosing the Right Thyme for Your Needs
When deciding which thyme to grow, consider its intended purpose. For culinary applications requiring a strong, classic thyme flavor, common thyme is the clear winner. For adding visual interest, creating an aromatic groundcover, or attracting pollinators, wild thyme is the superior choice. It's also possible to grow both to enjoy the benefits of each variety.
Cultivation and Care
Both thyme species are relatively easy to grow and prefer similar conditions, including full sun and well-draining soil. Common thyme, with its Mediterranean origins, is quite drought-tolerant once established. Wild thyme is equally hardy and can withstand light foot traffic, making it a functional and beautiful groundcover option. The key to success with both is avoiding waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Conclusion
While the name 'thyme' might suggest a single herb, the significant differences between wild thyme and common thyme make them useful for distinct purposes. From the landscape design perspective, wild thyme’s creeping habit is perfect for groundcover, while common thyme's upright structure is ideal for structured herb beds. In the kitchen, the choice depends entirely on the desired flavor intensity: common thyme for robust, savory dishes and wild thyme for a more delicate touch. By understanding these key distinctions, gardeners and chefs can make informed decisions to best utilize each plant’s unique characteristics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is wild thyme good for?
Wild thyme is excellent for use as a fragrant, drought-tolerant groundcover in gardens, rockeries, and between stepping stones. Culinarily, its milder flavor is best for garnishes, salads, and herbal teas.
Does wild thyme taste the same as common thyme?
No, wild thyme has a milder, often more floral flavor compared to the robust, savory, and earthy taste of common thyme. The intensity of the flavor is the main culinary difference.
Is wild thyme safe to eat?
Yes, wild thyme is perfectly safe to eat. Its edible leaves and flowers can be used in cooking, though its milder flavor is less suited for dishes where a strong thyme flavor is desired.
Can you substitute common thyme for wild thyme?
You can, but it will significantly change the flavor profile of a dish. Common thyme is much stronger, so if substituting, use a smaller amount to avoid overwhelming the other ingredients.
Is wild thyme also known as creeping thyme?
Yes, wild thyme ($Thymus serpyllum$) is also commonly known as creeping thyme or mother of thyme due to its low-growing, spreading habit.
Which thyme is better for cooking?
Common thyme ($Thymus vulgaris$) is generally considered better for cooking due to its more robust and concentrated flavor, which holds up well during the cooking process.
Which type of thyme is better for landscaping?
Wild thyme is the better choice for landscaping, especially for groundcover, as its creeping habit forms a dense, weed-suppressing mat. Common thyme's upright growth is better for defined herb beds or borders.
What is the scientific name for common thyme?
The scientific name for common thyme is Thymus vulgaris.
What is the scientific name for wild thyme?
The scientific name for wild thyme is Thymus serpyllum.
Do wild thyme and common thyme attract pollinators?
Yes, both types of thyme are excellent for attracting pollinators like bees, with their blooms providing a rich source of nectar. Wild thyme's more profuse flowering often creates a more dramatic display for pollinators.
Where does common thyme originate?
Common thyme ($Thymus vulgaris$) is native to the Mediterranean region, where it grows wild on dry, sunny hillsides.
Where can wild thyme be found?
Wild thyme ($Thymus serpyllum$) is native to northern Europe, western Asia, and North Africa and is often found in fields, grasslands, and other wild areas.
