An Overview of Elfin Thyme (Thymus serpyllum ‘Elfin’)

Elfin thyme is a popular variety of creeping thyme grown for its attractive foliage and flowers. With the botanical name Thymus serpyllum ‘Elfin’, this hardy perennial has unique growth habits and care needs compared to other thyme plants. If you’re considering adding elfin thyme to your garden, here is everything you need to know about this delightful groundcover.

What is Elfin Thyme?

Elfin thyme is a woody-based perennial in the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is a cultivar of wild thyme (Thymus serpyllum) selected for its compact, low growth habit. The species name “serpyllum” means “creeping” in Greek, referring to its ground-hugging stems.

Unlike common thyme which can grow 12+ inches tall, elfin thyme forms a tight mat only 1-3 inches in height. Its tiny leaves are arranged oppositely along the stems and its dainty pink, purple, or white flowers bloom in summer above the foliage. When not in bloom, elfin thyme is valued for its needle-like fragrant leaves that release a pleasant aroma when stepped on or brushed.

Key Features and Growing Conditions

Some of the key features of elfin thyme include

• Slow growth rate Under ideal conditions, elfin thyme grows at a rate of less than 6 inches per year. This makes it an excellent low maintenance groundcover.

• Evergreen foliage The tiny leaves remain green and intact throughout winter in most climates, providing year-round texture and color.

• Drought tolerance: Once established, elfin thyme only requires occasional watering, thriving even in dry, rocky areas.

• Sun exposure: Full sun is required for elfin thyme to thrive. At least 6 hours of direct sun per day is ideal.

• Soil drainage: Excellent drainage is critical. Elfin thyme suffers if soil is constantly wet. Adding grit helps improve drainage.

• Hardiness: Zones 4-9. Elfin thyme can withstand cold winters and is hardy even in freezing climates.

• Deer resistance: Most types of wildlife tend to leave elfin thyme alone due to its strongly scented foliage. This makes it a good option for gardens prone to deer and rabbit damage.

How to Grow Elfin Thyme

Here are some tips for successfully growing elfin thyme:

• Plant in spring or fall. Avoid summer heat when planting elfin thyme.

• Give plenty of sun. Ensure the location gets full sun for best growth.

• Improve drainage. Incorporate sand or gravel into heavy soil before planting.

• Space plants 12″ apart. Allow enough room between plants for creeping stems to fill in.

• Water sparingly after establishing. Too much moisture can lead to root rot.

• Trim lightly after flowering. Cutting back about half the plant in mid-summer encourages regrowth.

• Cut back in late winter before new growth emerges. This optional pruning freshens plants before the spring growing season.

• Propagate by division or cuttings. Dividing mature plants or taking 3-4 inch stem cuttings in spring or summer will create new elfin thyme plants easily.

How to Use Elfin Thyme

In addition to being an attractive evergreen groundcover, elfin thyme has a multitude of uses:

• Its leaves and flowers add flavor when cooking. Use it fresh or dried in recipes.

• Makes a refreshing tea when leaves are steeped in hot water.

• Refreshing thyme oil can be made by steam distilling the flowering tops.

• Repels mosquitos and other insects when planted around patios and walkways.

• Planted between stepping stones or pavers, elfin thyme provides pleasant aroma when trod upon.

• Its fine texture and bright flowers make it ideal for rock gardens and edging paths or flower beds.

• Excellent choice for green roofs, retaining walls, and drainage swales. Tolerates poor soil and binds the ground well to prevent erosion.

With its trailing woody stems covered in tiny evergreen leaves and colorful blooms, elfin thyme makes a superb groundcover plant. Thymus serpyllum ‘Elfin’ thrives in full sun and dry conditions, providing year-round texture and fragrance. Once established, it requires little care and is not bothered by deer and rabbits. Both the foliage and flowers have culinary uses as well. Elfin thyme is versatile, hardy, and beautiful – a welcome addition to any garden.