Lemon Thyme Thymus pulegioides 'Aureus'
ABOUT
Thymus pulegioides 'Aureus', commonly known as Golden Lemon Thyme, is a vibrant, aromatic perennial herb with a visually appealing appearance. The plant is characterized by its golden-yellow foliage, which offers a striking contrast to the more common green varieties of thyme. The leaves are small, rounded, and slightly curved, resembling tiny spoon shapes. They are often edged with a brighter hue that can catch the eye. As the seasons change, the intensity of the golden color in the leaves may vary, often becoming more pronounced with cooler weather. The foliage releases a delightful lemony fragrance when bruised or brushed against, making it not only a feast for the eyes but also for the senses. Golden Lemon Thyme produces delicate flowers that can range in color from pale lilac to pinkish-purple. These tiny, tubular blooms typically cluster at the tips of the stems, adding a sprinkle of color and attracting beneficial pollinators like bees during their blooming season. Overall, Golden Lemon Thyme is a low-growing, bushy herb that can add a splash of color and fragrance to gardens, borders, and culinary herb collections. Its appearance can create a stunning visual impact when planted en masse or can serve as an attractive ground cover or edging plant.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Golden Lemon Thyme, Lemon Thyme, Golden Thyme, Aureus Thyme
Common names
Thymus pulegioides 'Aureus'.
ToxicityTo humans
Thymus pulegioides 'Aureus', commonly known as lemon thyme, is not considered toxic to humans. It is actually used in cooking and as a herbal remedy for various ailments. However, like many plants, if an individual has a specific allergy or sensitivity, consuming or handling lemon thyme could cause allergic reactions. Ingesting it in normal culinary quantities is generally safe. There are no widely recognized symptoms of poisoning from lemon thyme, as it is not commonly considered poisonous.
To pets
Lemon thyme, the non-toxic plant to humans, is also generally considered safe for pets. It is not listed among the plants commonly known to be poisonous to cats, dogs, or other household pets. While its ingestion in small quantities should not be harmful, consuming large amounts may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, as with any non-food item eaten by pets. It is always best to monitor your pet and consult with a veterinarian if you observe any unusual behavior or signs of distress after ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Golden
Flower color
Pink
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
18 inches (45 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Thymus pulegioides 'Aureus', commonly known as Golden Lemon Thyme, has vibrant golden-yellow foliage that adds striking color to gardens and landscapes.
- Culinary Uses: It is a popular herb used in cooking for its lemon scent and flavor, enhancing many dishes.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Golden Lemon Thyme is drought-resistant, making it ideal for low-water gardens.
- Ground Cover: Its mat-forming habit makes it excellent for ground cover, helping to prevent soil erosion and weeds.
- Pollinator Attraction: The flowers attract bees and other pollinators, supporting local ecosystems and pollination of nearby plants.
- Fragrance: The aromatic leaves can be used to freshen indoor spaces or when planted along walkways where its scent will be released when brushed against.
- Easy to Grow: It is considered easy to care for, requiring minimal maintenance, and can be easily propagated.
- Versatility: Suitable for garden beds, rock gardens, containers, and as an edging plant, making it versatile in landscaping design.
- Evergreen: In milder climates, Golden Lemon Thyme is evergreen, providing year-round interest in the garden.
Medical Properties- Antimicrobial: Thymus pulegioides 'Aureus', commonly known as lemon thyme, contains compounds that may inhibit the growth of various microbes.
- Antioxidant: The herb has potential antioxidant properties due to its phenolic compounds.
- Antispasmodic: Lemon thyme may help relieve spasms in the digestive tract.
- Expectorant: It might be beneficial in clearing mucus from the respiratory tract.
- Carminative: Lemon thyme can aid in reducing gas and bloating.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Culinary Flavoring: The leaves of golden lemon thyme can be used to impart a lemony flavor to dishes, including marinades, dressings, and sauces.
- Decorative Element: Its vibrant golden-hued foliage makes golden lemon thyme an attractive addition to floral arrangements or as a garnish on plates for added visual appeal.
- Companion Planting: This plant can be used in vegetable gardens to help repel certain pests and can improve the flavor and growth of nearby plants.
- Natural Dye: The leaves contain compounds that can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics or wool in shades of green and yellow.
- Scented Sachets: Dried golden lemon thyme can be added to sachets to impart a fresh, citrusy aroma to drawers, closets, and cupboards.
- Aromatherapy: The plant's essential oils can be used in diffusers or homemade potpourri mixes for their soothing lemon scent.
- Foot Soaks: Leaves can be infused in hot water to create a fragrant foot soak that offers a refreshing experience.
- Plant Puzzles and Crafts: Dried stems and leaves can be used in creating botanical puzzles or incorporated into crafts such as wreaths and handmade paper.
- Mood Enhancer: Simply rubbing the leaves between fingers and inhaling the fragrance can have a mood-lifting effect due to its fresh, lemony scent.
- Soil Erosion Control: When planted in the garden, this plant's root system can help prevent soil erosion, especially in sloped areas.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Lemon Thyme is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityLemon Thyme is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Courage: In ancient times, thyme was given to knights and warriors before they went into battle, as it was believed to impart courage to its bearer.
- Strength: Thyme is known for its hardiness and ability to thrive in difficult conditions, representing strength and resilience.
- Healing: Thyme has long been used for its medicinal properties, symbolizing healing and therapeutic virtues.
- Cleansing: With its antiseptic qualities, thyme is often associated with purification and the cleansing of body and mind.
- Longevity: Thyme is a perennial plant, often symbolizing eternal life and longevity.
- Peace: The scent of thyme is believed to bring a sense of calming peace, warding off nightmares and promoting restful sleep.
WaterGolden lemon thyme requires regular watering to maintain moist but not waterlogged soil. In the growing season, water the plant thoroughly once or twice a week, allowing the soil to slightly dry out between waterings. On average, it may need about 1 to 2 gallons per week, depending on the climate and soil drainage. Be cautious of overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. During dormant periods in winter, reduce watering frequency to once every two weeks or when the soil is dry to the touch.
LightGolden lemon thyme thrives in full sun conditions, where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. A spot that provides bright, unfiltered sunlight is ideal for encouraging healthy growth and the best flavor in the leaves. If grown indoors, place it near a south-facing window where it can get ample light.
TemperatureGolden lemon thyme prefers a mild to warm climate, with ideal growing temperatures ranging between 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of around 40 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from frost. To ensure the plant's health, avoid exposing it to temperatures below freezing as it may not survive the cold extremes.
PruningPruning golden lemon thyme helps to maintain its shape, encourage bushier growth, and prevent woody stems. Prune lightly in early spring to stimulate new growth and again after flowering to keep it compact. Pruning is ideally done just before new growth begins, but sporadic trimming throughout the growing season is also beneficial.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLemon thyme prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0. A mix of peat, perlite, and sand in equal parts creates an ideal environment. Add a slow-release fertilizer to nourish the plant.
RepottingLemon thyme typically does not need frequent repotting. Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its current pot to provide fresh soil and encourage growth.
Humidity & MistingLemon thyme thrives in average humidity conditions and does not require high humidity; it is well-suited to the natural humidity levels found in most homes.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, avoid overwatering, and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-draining soil, and space 12 inches apart.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThymus pulegioides 'Aureus', commonly known as golden lemon thyme, begins its life cycle as a seed, typically sown in well-drained soil under full sun to partial shade in spring after the last frost. Upon germination, it develops a root system and a rosette of small, oval leaves that are golden-yellow in color, which can provide a clue to successful establishment. As it enters the vegetative stage, the plant grows both in height and width, forming a low-growing, mat-like shape with woody stems and aromatic foliage. The plant reaches maturity and enters the flowering stage in the early summer, producing small pink to lavender flowers that attract pollinators such as bees. After pollination, the flowers develop into tiny nutlets that contain seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. Golden lemon thyme is a perennial herb, so following seed dispersion, it will generally continue to grow and overwinter, with foliage sometimes persisting in mild climates, until it reemerges the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
The common name for Thymus pulegioides 'Aureus' is Golden Lemon Thyme, and the most popular way to propagate this plant is by stem cuttings, which is typically done in the late spring or early summer when the plant's growth is most vigorous. To propagate Golden Lemon Thyme using stem cuttings, one must select a healthy, non-flowering shoot and cut a 2 to 4-inch piece (5 to 10 centimeters) just below a node using a sharp, clean pair of shears. The lower leaves are stripped off, and the cut end can be dipped in a rooting hormone to encourage root development, though this is optional. The cutting should be placed in a pot with well-draining soil, watered lightly and ensured that the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. Covering the pot with a plastic bag can create a greenhouse effect, maintaining humidity around the cutting. The cutting should root within several weeks, upon which it can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the garden.
