creeping thyme
Thymus serpyllum
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thymus_serpyllum
Overview
Thymus serpyllum, known by the common names of Breckland thyme, Breckland wild thyme, wild thyme, creeping thyme, or elfin thyme, is a species of flowering plant in the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is a low, usually prostrate subshrub forming creeping stems up to 10 cm (4 in) tall. The oval evergreen leaves are up to 8 mm. The strongly scented flowers are either lilac, pink-purple, magenta, up to 6 mm long and produced in clusters.
Creeping thyme faces severe population declines due to habitat loss from agricultural intensification, urban development, and changes in traditional land management practices that historically maintained suitable grassland conditions. Climate change and invasive species competition further threaten remaining populations in fragmented habitats.
Habitat
Dry grasslands, heathlands, sand dunes, rocky slopes, and short turf areas, typically on calcareous or sandy soils in open, sunny locations from sea level to montane elevations. Also found in traditionally managed meadows, pastures, and along path edges where regular disturbance maintains low vegetation height.
Other threatened species in Lamiaceae
Frequently asked questions
Why is creeping thyme classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does creeping thyme live?
What are the main threats to creeping thyme?
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