Thymus integer
Thymus integer
Cyprus thyme
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Description
Thymus integer, known as a compact Mediterranean thyme, forms a low, aromatic mound sprinkled with pink-lilac blooms in late spring. It thrives in sun, lean soil, and dry conditions, making it perfect for rock gardens, terraces, and containers. Bees adore its flowers, and its leaves offer a delicate, savory thyme flavor for the kitchen.
Common Names
Cyprus thymeRock thymeWild thyme of CyprusShrubby thyme
Context
nativeRegion
Endemic to Cyprus; rocky limestone slopes, garrigue, and open scrub.
usdaZones
7–10 (with excellent drainage); warmer zones for best performance.
companionPlants
Lavender (Lavandula), Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus), Oregano (Origanum), Sage (Salvia officinalis), Cistus, Santolina, Helianthemum, Teucrium, Sedum
culturalUses
Culinary herb for seasoning, aromatic teas, and essential oils; prized bee forage for thyme honey; ornamental in rock and drought gardens.
Care
Care Requirements
LightFull sun (6+ hours of direct light).
WateringWater deeply but infrequently; allow soil to dry between waterings. Drought-tolerant once established.
SoilVery well-drained, sandy or gritty mix; prefers alkaline to neutral soils. Avoid heavy clay and waterlogged sites.
FertilizerMinimal feeding. Light, low-nitrogen fertilizer or compost in spring only; avoid rich soils that reduce aroma and vigor.
HumidityLow to average; prefers good air circulation and dry conditions.
TemperatureBest at 65–85°F (18–29°C). Hardy in mild winters; protect from prolonged hard freezes and winter wet.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEvergreen, low, woody subshrub forming compact mats or mounds.
Mature Size6–12 in tall (15–30 cm) and 18–24 in wide (45–60 cm).
Growth RateModerate growth rate.
BloomingLate spring to early summer; pink to lilac flowers highly attractive to pollinators.
DormancyEvergreen to semi-evergreen in mild climates; growth slows in winter.
Propagation
MethodsSemi-ripe cuttings, Division, Seed, Layering
DifficultyEasy to moderate.
Best SeasonSpring to early summer for cuttings and division; sow seed in spring or late summer.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningShear lightly after flowering to keep compact; remove dead or leggy stems in late winter. Avoid cutting into old woody stems.
RepottingFor containers, refresh into a gritty, free-draining mix every 2–3 years in spring; use terracotta for faster drying.
Pests & DiseasesGenerally trouble-free; susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soil. Occasional aphids or spider mites; fungal issues if overcrowded.
ToxicityGenerally non-toxic and culinary; concentrated essential oils may cause stomach upset in pets if ingested in large amounts.
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