Silver Posie Thyme Thymus 'Silver Posie'
ABOUT
Thymus 'Silver Posie', commonly referred to as thyme, is a perennial herb with a distinctive appearance. Its foliage is variegated, meaning the leaves exhibit a combination of green and creamy-white colors. The leaves are small, rounded, and slightly curved, resembling tiny spoon shapes. Due to the variegation, they have an eye-catching contrast and a silvered appearance, which is particularly striking against the green parts of the foliage. Thyme 'Silver Posie' produces small flowers that are often a soft pink to pale purple in color, creating a subtle display that complements the variegated leaves. These flowers are tiny and tubular, and they typically form in small clusters at the tips of the stems, attracting bees and other pollinators. The stems themselves are slender and woody at the base, becoming more herbaceous and flexible towards the tips where the growth is new. The overall growth habit of 'Silver Posie' thyme is dense and bushy, with a tendency to spread, forming a mat-like coverage. The plant has a fragrant aroma, often described as minty or lemony, which is characteristic of many thyme varieties. This fragrance becomes more pronounced when the leaves are brushed or crushed, releasing essential oils that contribute to its use in culinary and aromatic applications.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae.
Synonyms
Silver Posie Thyme, Variegated Lemon Thyme, Ornamental Thyme.
Common names
Thymus 'Silver Posie'.
ToxicityTo humans
Thyme, including the variety 'Silver Posie', is generally not toxic to humans when consumed in typical culinary quantities. It is commonly used as an herb in cooking and has no significant toxic effects in small doses. However, consuming large quantities could potentially lead to digestive issues, though this is uncommon. Thyme essential oil, which is much more concentrated, can be toxic if ingested in significant amounts and should only be used externally or with proper dilution. Symptoms of essential oil poisoning might include dizziness, headaches, or muscle weakness, but remember, this is only relevant in the context of consuming the oil, not the plant leaves in culinary applications.
To pets
Thyme, including the 'Silver Posie' variety, is generally considered to be non-toxic to pets. It is not known to cause significant toxic effects in animals such as dogs and cats if ingested in small, culinary amounts. However, it's always possible that an individual animal could have an allergic reaction or an atypical response to ingesting the plant. In the case of an abnormal reaction, symptoms might include gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, or diarrhea. As with humans, essential oils derived from thyme should be used with caution around pets due to their concentrated nature and potential for toxicity if ingested or applied improperly.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
Pink
Height
1 foot [30 cm]
Spread
1 foot [30 cm]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Thyme 'Silver Posie' is valued for its variegated foliage, with white-edged green leaves that add visual interest to gardens and landscapes.
- Culinary Use: The herb is commonly used in cooking, with its leaves adding flavor to a variety of dishes.
- Fragrance: This thyme variety has a pleasant, aromatic scent that can be enjoyed in the garden or when used in potpourris.
- Drought Tolerance: Thyme 'Silver Posie' is drought-tolerant, making it a suitable plant for xeriscaping or for regions with water restrictions.
- Pollinator Attraction: The flowers of the plant attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, which are essential for the pollination of many plants.
- Ground Cover: With its low-growing habit, it is effective as a ground cover that can help control soil erosion and suppress weeds.
- Herb Garden Addition: Thyme 'Silver Posie' is a great addition to herb gardens, providing both aesthetic and practical benefits.
- Container Gardening: It is well-suited for container gardening, allowing it to be easily moved and enjoyed in various settings.
- Low Maintenance: This variety of thyme is generally low maintenance, requiring minimal care once established in the appropriate conditions.
- Evergreen: It maintains its foliage year-round, providing winter interest in the garden when many other plants have died back.
Medical Properties- Antimicrobial: Thyme has compounds that can inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and viruses.
- Antispasmodic: It may help relieve smooth muscle spasms, such as those in the intestine.
- Expectorant: Thyme has been used to help clear respiratory passages and ease coughing.
- Antioxidant: Thyme contains flavonoids that contribute to its antioxidant properties.
- Carminative: May help reduce gas and bloating by relaxing the digestive tract.
- Antitussive: Thyme can help suppress coughs.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a hair rinse: The infusion of the Silver Posie thyme can be used as a final rinse after shampooing to add shine and a subtle fragrance to the hair.
- In crafting: The small, variegated leaves of Silver Posie thyme can be used in potpourri or as a natural decorative element in handmade soaps.
- Textile dyeing: The plant can be used as a natural dye source for textiles, giving a beige to soft green colour depending on the mordant used.
- Thyme baths: The aromatic leaves can be added to bathwater for a relaxing and fragrant soak that is soothing for the body.
- Thyme-scented candles: The essential oil or dried leaves of Silver Posie thyme can be incorporated into homemade candles to create a pleasantly scented ambiance.
- As a natural cleaner: A cleaning solution can be made from the plant’s extract that is effective in deodorizing and sanitizing surfaces in the household.
- In bookmarks: Dried sprigs of Silver Posie thyme can be laminated inside bookmarks to add a pleasant aroma to books and reading material.
- In pet bedding: Dried leaves can be sprinkled in pet beds to give a fresh scent and potentially deter fleas due to the herbal content.
- As a moth repellent: Bundles of dried Silver Posie thyme can be hung in wardrobes or placed in drawers as a natural moth repellent.
- In holiday decorations: The plant can be incorporated into wreaths and holiday arrangements because of its evergreen foliage and its ability to retain its color and form when dried.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThyme is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThyme is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Courage: Thyme, including the 'Silver Posie' variety, has historically been associated with bravery and strength, often given to knights and warriors before they went into battle.
- Cleansing: Thyme is believed to have purifying properties, making it symbolic for cleansing both physically in terms of antiseptic uses, and spiritually in rituals.
- Healing: With its medicinal qualities, thyme often represents healing, recovery, and the restoration of bodily and mental health.
- Passing of Time: The very name 'thyme' is a homophone for 'time,' which can symbolize the passage of time, permanence, or eternity.
- Affection: In some traditions, giving someone a sprig of thyme can symbolize affection and fondness for the individual.
WaterThe Silver Thyme, also known as Thymus 'Silver Posie', prefers to be watered only when the soil has completely dried out, as it is drought-tolerant. Typically, watering once every 1 to 2 weeks during the growing season should suffice, with reduced frequency to once every 3 weeks or less during dormant periods, depending on the climate. Use approximately one gallon of water, evenly distributed around the plant, to ensure the root zone is moistened. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so ensuring good drainage and checking the soil moisture level before watering is crucial.
LightSilver Thyme flourishes best in full sun conditions, where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. An ideal spot would be a south-facing garden bed or a windowsill that provides ample sunlight throughout the day. The plant is adaptable and can tolerate partial shade, but the flavors and growth of the foliage are optimal when exposed to full sun.
TemperatureSilver Thyme is a hardy plant that can cope with a temperature range from 20°F to 80°F, making it suitable for various climates. It can survive short periods of colder temperatures down to about 10°F, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below its minimum can be detrimental. Ideally, maintaining an environment where temperatures stay within 60°F to 70°F will keep the Silver Thyme happiest and growing vigorously.
PruningPruning Silver Thyme can encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming woody. Prune lightly in the early spring or after the plant has flowered, cutting back about a third of the growth. Regular pruning, 2 to 3 times during the growing season, can help maintain an attractive shape and promote the growth of fresh, aromatic leaves. The best time for more substantial pruning is in the spring, just as new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThyme 'Silver Posie' thrives best in well-draining soil with a mix of two parts potting soil, one part perlite, and one part coarse sand to ensure proper drainage and aeration. The ideal soil pH for Silver Posie Thyme should be between 6.0 and 8.0, slightly acidic to alkaline. Regular garden soil can be amended with organic matter to improve drainage if necessary.
RepottingSilver Posie Thyme does not require frequent repotting; it can be done every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Ensure the new pot is only slightly larger than the previous one to avoid overwatering issues.
Humidity & MistingSilver Posie Thyme prefers a low to moderate humidity environment typical of most household conditions. Avoid overly humid areas as this can promote fungal diseases; a level around 30-50% humidity is ideal for healthy growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Silver Posie Thyme in sunny spot with well-drained soil.
Outdoor
Plant Silver Posie Thyme in sunny location with well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThymus 'Silver Posie', commonly known as Silver Posie Thyme, begins its life cycle as a seed, which, when sowed in early spring, will germinate in warm, well-drained soil with plenty of sunshine. The seedlings emerge within a few weeks and once established, will grow into a small, bushy perennial herb with variegated silver-edged leaves and a pleasant aroma. During the late spring to early summer, Silver Posie Thyme produces small, usually pink to purple flowers that are attractive to bees and other pollinators. After flowering, the plant will set seed, which can be collected if desired or allowed to self-sow, thus perpetuating the life cycle. Throughout its life, which can last for several years, Silver Posie Thyme should be pruned regularly to encourage a dense growth habit and to prevent it from becoming woody. In colder climates, it may die back in winter, but will resprout from the base in spring if the root system is well-established and protected from extreme cold.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
Thymus 'Silver Posie', commonly known as Silver Posie Thyme, is a perennial herb that can be effectively propagated in late spring or early summer when the plant's growth is most vigorous. The most popular method of propagation for this plant is by taking stem cuttings. To do this, cut a 2 to 4-inch (5 to 10 cm) long stem from a healthy mother plant, ensuring that there are several leaves on the cutting. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem to expose the nodes where roots will develop. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone to encourage root growth and plant it in a pot filled with well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and place the pot in a warm area with indirect sunlight. Roots should form within a few weeks, after which the young plant can be transplanted into the garden or a larger container.
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