Thyme seeds

Thyme is an aromatic, medicinal, culinary and nectar-rich plant that can be grown from seed. We offer various varieties as seeds, including Common thyme, Summer thyme and Thyme Orangelo, to vary the uses, fragrances and forms, from a small, dense cushion to a more spreading variety. Thyme, or Thymus, also known as common thyme, is an aromatic Mediterranean shrub with evergreen foliage, well suited to dry gardens, rockeries and borders. It can also be sown in a container near the kitchen. It is valued for its fragrance, its use in the kitchen garden and its nectar-rich flowering.

Common thyme is a classic ingredient in a bouquet garni, prized for its highly fragrant foliage, which is useful in cooking and herbal infusions. Summer thyme forms a small, dense clump with fine, aromatic foliage, well suited to the herb garden. Wild thyme 'Magic Cartpet' produces very spreading growth and decorative, nectar-rich pink flowers in summer. Depending on the variety, thyme can therefore be grown as much for its culinary qualities as for its ornamental appeal.

Thyme seeds are sown in spring, in light, poor or stony soil that is always well drained, in full sun. Once established, this Mediterranean plant tolerates drought well, but dislikes excessive moisture, particularly during germination. Sow from April to May, or until June for wild thyme, in a fine-textured growing medium. Cover the seeds very lightly, keep the medium slightly moist without waterlogging it, and prick out the young plants into a warm, open position.

To learn all about this aromatic plant, discover our growing guide: "Thyme: growing, planting and pruning"