| Thymus citriodorus | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| (unranked): | Angiosperms |
| (unranked): | Eudicots |
| (unranked): | Asterids |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Thymus |
| Species: | T. citriodorus |
| Binomial name | |
| Thymus citriodorus |
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| Synonyms | |
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Thymus x citriodorus (Pers.) Schreb., T. serpyllum citratus, T. serpyllum citriodora, T. serpyllum citriodorum |
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Thymus citriodorus or Thymus x citriodorus, also known as Lemon thyme or Citrus thyme (synonyms: Thymus fragrantissimus, [1] Thymus serpyllum citratus, Thymus serpyllum citriodorum) [2] is a species of the herb Thyme, in the genus Thymus. It is a hybrid of European garden origin, between Thymus pulegioides and Thymus vulgaris. [2]
The plant is an evergreen sub-shrub, growing to 0.1 metres (3.9 in) in height by 0.3 metres (12 in) in spread. It prefers full sun and well draining soil. The bloom period is mid to late summer, with pink to lavender flowers that are a nectar source for bees and butterflies. [2]
Contents |
Thymus citriodorus and its cultivars are cultivated as ornamental plants, culinary herbs, and medicinal plants.
The leaves are used as a flavoring herb in cooking, raw in salads, and for a herbal teas. [2]
Herbal medicinal uses can include the using leaves and/or essential oils in: antiseptics, asthma and respiratory aromatherapy, deodorants, and disinfectants. [2]
In gardens, the plants are often used as groundcovers: in planting beds, between stepping stones, and in containers. They are a drought tolerant plant when established [3]. As honey plants attracting wildlife, they are used in wildlife gardening. [2]
Cultivars are selected for foliage color, and aromas of different citrus fruits: