WILD SPANISH THYME

Thymus longiflorus

Endemic to the Mediterranean coast of Spain, this wild thyme has unusually large and ornamental pink bracts and flowers that hold over a long season. All aerial portions, including the spectacular flowers, are suitable for use as an herb. An interesting substitute for common garden thyme. Unusual and hardy. An excellent choice for the rock garden. Worth growing for purely ornamental purposes.

Start seeds indoors several weeks before the last frost: press seeds into moist well-drained soil and mist carefully with warm water. Cover with plastic to maintain moisture and temperature. Kept warm 70°-75°F) and moist in bright light seeds will germinate, sometimes erratically, over 2-3 weeks. Uncover promptly once germination has begun. Mist frequently with warm water to keep ungerminated seeds moist. Prick out seedlings to grow on in individual cells or containers once they have two to three sets of true leaves. Grow on in bright light and warm temperatures. Do not overwater! Pinch regularly to encourage branching.

Thyme absolutely requires full sun and dry soil. These plants are easy to grow, but can be somewhat slow from seed. Seedlings under lights seem spindly and weak, but once outdoors in full sun they will grow study very quickly. Do not overwater. Young plants will recover more quickly from drying out than becoming waterlogged.

Hardy to at least zone 5.

Packet contains at least 50 seeds.