Faustino’s Thyme Thymus × faustinoi
ABOUT
Thymus × faustinoi, commonly known as Faustino's thyme, is a hybrid herb that exhibits a charming and quaint appearance typical of many thyme varieties. It possesses small, oval-shaped leaves that often have a grayish-green hue, which cover its sprawling stems. These leaves are aromatic, releasing a delightful fragrance when brushed against or crushed, which is characteristic of thyme plants. During its flowering season, Faustino's thyme is adorned with tiny, tubular flowers that can range in color from pale pink to purple, adding a subtle splash of color to the foliage. The flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies, making the plant not only a culinary asset but also beneficial for pollinator gardens. Its overall form is low and spreading, creating a mat-like growth habit that is often used to soften edges in garden beds or as a fragrant ground cover.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Faustino's Thyme
Common names
Thymus × faustinoi
ToxicityTo humans
The plant Thymus × faustinoi, commonly known as lemon thyme or Faustino's thyme, is not typically considered toxic to humans. In general, thyme is used as a culinary herb and is not associated with toxicity when ingested in normal food amounts. However, as with many plants, consuming it in excessively large quantities could potentially lead to digestive discomfort or an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals.
To pets
Thymus × faustinoi, commonly known as lemon thyme or Faustino's thyme, is also not usually considered toxic to pets. It is a herb often used in cooking, and small amounts are not likely to cause harm. However, ingestion of large amounts can sometimes result in mild gastrointestinal upset in some pets. Always monitor your pet around plants and consult with a veterinarian if you suspect your pet has consumed a large amount of any plant material.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1 foot [30 cm]
Spread
2 feet [60 cm]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Culinary Uses: Thymus × faustinoi, commonly known as Faustino's thyme, can be used in cooking to flavor various dishes, including soups, sauces, and meats.
- Aromatic Qualities: Faustino's thyme has a pleasant fragrance that makes it a popular choice for use in potpourris, sachets, and herbal pillows.
- Garden Aesthetics: With its attractive foliage and flowers, Faustino's thyme contributes to the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Erosion Control: This plant can help prevent soil erosion when used as ground cover due to its mat-forming growth habit.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers of Faustino's thyme are known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, supporting biodiversity.
- Culinary Herb Production: It is a source of fresh or dried herbs that can be harvested for personal or commercial purposes.
- Companion Planting: As a companion plant in gardens, Faustino's thyme can contribute to the overall health and productivity of other plants by repelling certain pests.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Thymus × faustinoi, commonly known as Faustino's thyme, can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, imparting a range of soft yellows and greens depending on the mordant used.
- In the kitchen, Faustino's thyme can be used as a flavoring for homemade vinegars or oils, imparting a unique and aromatic twist to these condiments.
- Faustino's thyme can be incorporated into potpourris for its pleasant fragrance, which can help freshen up rooms naturally without synthetic scents.
- When dried and burnt, the plant can be used as a natural incense that provides a calming aroma in various spiritual and relaxation practices.
- The plant's small purple flowers can be used ornamentally in cake decorations or as edible garnishes for both sweet and savory dishes.
- In the garden, Faustino's thyme can function as a low-growing groundcover, helping to reduce weeds and soil erosion.
- Faustino's thyme can be used in crafting, particularly in wreath making, to add texture and aroma to decorative pieces.
- The aromatic leaves of Faustino's thyme can be used to repel certain insects in the pantry when dried and placed among stored grains and legumes.
- When kept in bouquets, the small flowers of the Faustino's thyme add a delicate charm to floral arrangements.
- Faustino's thyme can be used to create a naturally scented bath by adding fresh or dried leaves into bathwater for a refreshing bathing experience.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Thymus × faustinoi, commonly known as Faustino's thyme, is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Faustino's thyme is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Strength and Courage: Thymus × faustinoi, commonly known as Spanish Thyme, embodies strength and courage as thyme has been associated with bravery from ancient times through its use in herbal remedies that were believed to give strength to warriors.
- Healing: Spanish Thyme is also symbolic of healing due to its medicinal properties, historically used to treat a range of ailments, suggesting its ability to restore health and wellness.
- Purification: With its antiseptic qualities, Spanish Thyme represents purification, often used in practices to cleanse spaces of negative energies and protect against illness.
- Connection to the fairy world: Thyme is believed to have a special place in the supernatural realm, with Spanish Thyme being no exception. It's thought to be a favorite of fairies, representing a bridge to the mystical and a symbol of enchantment.
WaterFaustino’s thyme should be watered thoroughly, allowing the soil to become slightly dry between waterings. Typically, this means watering the plant every 5 to 7 days, depending on the climate and indoor conditions. When you water, aim to evenly saturate the soil until excess water drains from the bottom. During the active growing season in spring and summer, you may need to water more frequently. However, it is important not to overwater; approximately half a gallon every week should suffice for a medium-sized plant.
LightFaustino’s thyme thrives best in full sunlight, so it should be placed in a location where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. A south-facing window or a spot in a sunny garden would be ideal. If grown indoors, make sure the plant is close to a bright window without any shade covering it.
TemperatureFaustino’s thyme prefers a temperate range, with ideal conditions between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of 20 degrees Fahrenheit and should not be exposed to extremes beyond 90 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature range suits its Mediterranean origin and helps maintain healthy growth.
PruningFaustino’s thyme should be pruned to encourage bushier growth and to prevent it from becoming woody and sparse. Pruning is best done in the early spring or after the plant has flowered. Remove any dead or weak stems, and trim about a third of the plant's length to promote new growth. Pruning once or twice a year is usually sufficient.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThymus × faustinoi, commonly known as Faustino's thyme, thrives in well-draining and sandy soil with a pH of 6.0 to 8.0. A recommended soil mix for Faustino's thyme is one part sand, one part compost, and one part loamy garden soil. Adjust the pH with lime to raise or sulfur to lower it if necessary.
RepottingFaustino's thyme should be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. It is best to repot in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Humidity & MistingFaustino's thyme prefers a Mediterranean climate and does well in low to moderate humidity levels. It is tolerant of dry air and does not require high humidity to thrive.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Faustino's thyme in bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Faustino's thyme needs full sun and well-drained soil outdoors.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThymus × faustinoi, commonly known as Faustino's thyme, begins its life cycle from seed, which germinates in spring to early summer in well-draining soil with ample sunlight. The seedlings emerge and grow into young plants, developing a woody base and branching stems that spread out to form a low-growing aromatic mat. Throughout the growing season, the plant produces small, oval to elliptical leaves and, by late spring to early summer, it blooms with small, tubular, pink to lilac flowers, attracting bees and other pollinators. After pollination, the flowers produce tiny, nutlet-like fruits that contain seeds for the next generation. In the autumn, growth slows down, and the plant may become semi-dormant, particularly in cooler climates. Each year, the perennial plant expands and thickens, able to withstand mild winters and regrow from its woody base when favorable conditions return.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Early Summer
Thymus × faustinoi, commonly known as Faustino's thyme, can be propagated by seed, but the most popular method is by stem cuttings. This allows gardeners to maintain the characteristics of a specific cultivar, which would not be true to type if grown from seed. The best time to take stem cuttings of Faustino's thyme is in late spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be about 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long and stripped of leaves from the bottom half. The cut end is often dipped in a rooting hormone to encourage root development and then inserted into a mix of sand and peat. The cutting should be kept in a well-lit area but out of direct sunlight and maintained at a constant moisture level until roots have developed, which usually takes about 2 to 6 weeks. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted into individual pots or into the garden.
