Lemon thyme Thymus 'Sparkling Bright' (v)
ABOUT
Thymus 'Sparkling Bright', commonly known as thyme, is distinguished by its distinctive foliage and blooms. The leaves of this plant are small and rounded, presenting a vibrant green hue that may have hints of golden or bright yellow edges, contributing to its sparkling appearance. The foliage often forms a dense, mat-like structure that serves as an aromatic ground cover. When in bloom, the thyme produces tiny, tubular flowers that cluster together, typically exhibiting shades of pink or lavender. These blossoms are known to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, adding a lively element to its display. The overall aesthetics of the thyme 'Sparkling Bright' are both colorful and fragrant, making it a pleasing addition to any garden setting where a low-growing, decorative element is desired.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Sparkling Bright Thyme, Variegated Thyme
Common names
Thymus 'Sparkling Bright'
ToxicityTo humans
Thyme, including the variety Thymus 'Sparkling Bright', is generally considered non-toxic to humans and is commonly used as a culinary herb. However, in rare cases or when consumed in extremely large quantities, it may cause mild digestive upset. There is usually no serious risk of poisoning from consuming thyme in typical culinary usage.
To pets
Thyme, including the variety Thymus 'Sparkling Bright', is generally considered safe for pets, and is not known to be toxic to dogs or cats. It is unlikely to cause poisoning when ingested in small, culinary quantities. However, as with any non-pet food, overconsumption or individual allergic reactions could potentially lead to mild gastrointestinal upset.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
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- Culinary Use: Thymus 'Sparkling Bright' commonly known as lemon thyme, can be used to add flavor to a variety of dishes, including meats, soups, and sauces.
- Aromatic: This plant emits a pleasant lemon scent when its leaves are bruised or crushed, making it a delightful addition to gardens or as a pot herb.
- Pollinator Attraction: The flowers of lemon thyme attract bees and beneficial insects which are helpful for pollinating gardens and supporting ecosystem diversity.
- Ornamental Value: With its small, bright green foliage and petite flowers, lemon thyme provides visual interest and can be used in rock gardens, borders, or as ground cover.
- Drought Tolerance: Lemon thyme is a hardy plant that can withstand periods of dryness once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping or low-water gardens.
- Low Maintenance: This variety of thyme generally requires minimal care, making it a good option for gardeners of all levels.
- Cooking Enhancement: The leaves enhance the taste of dishes when used fresh or dried, offering a versatile herb for culinary uses.
Medical Properties- Antimicrobial: Thymus plants, including 'Sparkling Bright', contain thymol, an essential oil with known antimicrobial properties, helping to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi.
- Antispasmodic: Thyme has been used to help reduce spasms in the respiratory system and elsewhere in the body.
- Expectorant: It has traditionally been used to help loosen phlegm and treat coughs.
- Antitussive: Can be used to alleviate coughing.
- Carminative: Thyme has been employed to reduce gas and bloating by easing the gastrointestinal tract.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a culinary herb, Thyme 'Sparkling Bright' can be used to flavor a variety of dishes including soups, stews, and sauces, adding a unique lemony and slightly floral taste.
- In aromatherapy, the essential oil of Thyme 'Sparkling Bright' might be used for its refreshing and uplifting scent, though it should be used with caution due to potential skin sensitivities.
- Thyme 'Sparkling Bright' plants can serve as a natural insect repellent in gardens due to their strong fragrance, potentially deterring pests from other plants.
- As a companion plant, Thyme 'Sparkling Bright' can benefit the growth of vegetables by attracting beneficial insects such as bees for pollination.
- The small flowers of Thyme 'Sparkling Bright' can be used as an edible garnish on salads and other dishes, adding both visual appeal and a subtle herbaceous flavor.
- When used in potpourri, the dried leaves and flowers of Thyme 'Sparkling Bright' contribute a pleasant aroma and can help freshen up indoor spaces.
- Create a Thyme 'Sparkling Bright' herbal vinegar by steeping the herb in vinegar to infuse it with flavor, which can then be used in dressings or to add zest to recipes.
- Thyme 'Sparkling Bright' can be included in herbal sachets or pillows, potentially offering a soothing fragrance that might help promote relaxation and sleep.
- In woodwork and furniture care, an infused oil of Thyme 'Sparkling Bright' might be used as a natural polish that also imparts a fresh, herbaceous scent.
- Thyme 'Sparkling Bright' can be grown as an ornamental ground cover, providing not only aesthetic beauty with its petite flowers but also a delightful scent when walked upon or brushed against.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThyme is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThyme is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Courage: Thyme has been historically associated with bravery, dating back to when Roman soldiers exchanged sprigs of thyme as a sign of respect and strength.
- Cleansing: Since ancient times, thyme has been used in various cultures for its purifying properties, symbolizing the cleansing of the spirit.
- Healing: Thymus 'Sparkling Bright', being a variety of thyme, inherits the symbolism of healing due to thyme's medicinal properties.
- Passing of time: With its name etymologically linked to 'thymos' meaning 'to fumigate' in Greek and also associated with 'thumus' meaning 'courage', it also connects to the temporal passage, as it's used in cooking and preserving, indicating the passage and marking of time.
WaterLemon thyme requires moderate watering, particularly when it's young or during dry spells. After establishment, it becomes more drought-tolerant. Water when the soil feels dry to the touch, providing about 1 inch of water weekly. Ensure you're watering deeply to encourage a strong root system. It's crucial not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
LightLemon thyme thrives in full sun, which ensures maximum flavor and growth. It prefers a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Avoid planting in areas that are too shaded, as this can impede growth and reduce the plant's vitality.
TemperatureLemon thyme prefers a mild to warm climate and can usually withstand temperatures as low as 20°F and as high as 80°F. The ideal temperature range for growing lemon thyme is between 60°F and 70°F. It's important to protect the plant from extreme cold, which can damage or kill it.
PruningLemon thyme should be pruned to encourage bushier growth and prevent it from becoming woody. Pruning is best done in the early spring or after the plant flowers. Cut back about a third of the growth to keep it compact and healthy. Regular trimming also encourages new, flavorful leaves.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThyme 'Sparkling Bright' thrives in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. A good soil mix for this variety could be equal parts potting soil, perlite, and coarse sand to ensure adequate drainage. It's important the soil is not too rich or moist, as this can lead to root rot.
RepottingThyme 'Sparkling Bright' does not need frequent repotting and can be done every 2-3 years. It's best to repot when the plant shows signs of being root-bound or when the soil is depleted of nutrients.
Humidity & MistingThyme 'Sparkling Bright' prefers a dry environment and does well in low humidity conditions typical of indoor air. Avoid creating overly humid conditions as thyme is drought-tolerant and excess humidity can promote fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place thyme 'Sparkling Bright' in a sunny spot.
Outdoor
Grow in full sun, in well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThymus 'Sparkling Bright', commonly known as Variegated Lemon Thyme, typically begins its life cycle when seeds are sown in well-drained soil and germinate, usually in spring. After initial germination, the seedlings develop into small herbaceous plants, producing characteristic variegated leaves that are green with creamy white edges and emit a lemony fragrance when bruised. As the plants mature, they enter a vegetative growth stage, during which they spread out to form a low-growing mat reaching about 6 to 10 inches tall. During late spring to early summer, Variegated Lemon Thyme enters the flowering stage, producing small pink or purple flowers that attract pollinators like bees. After pollination, the flowers will produce seeds, allowing for the cycle to continue if conditions are favorable. The plant is perennial, so once established, it continues to grow and can be propagated through cuttings to generate new plants while the original plant may enter a period of dormancy in winter, especially in colder climates.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Thymus 'Sparkling Bright', commonly known as Sparkling Bright thyme, is typically propagated through stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings for propagation is in late spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing. To propagate, select a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut a 2 to 4-inch (5 to 10 cm) length, making sure there are several nodes on the cutting. Strip the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root development. Then, insert the stem into a well-draining soil mixture and maintain consistent moisture without overwatering. Keep the cutting in a warm environment with indirect light until roots have established, which usually takes a few weeks. After the roots have developed, the new plant can be transplanted to its final growing location.
