Overview
Thymus citriodorus 'Variegata' is a bushy, matforming perennial herb in the genus Thymus, part of the Lamiaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Thymus citriodorus 'Variegata' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and sandy or loamy soils and neutral and alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include ground cover, herb garden and edging. It is native to Mediterranean region.
About
Thymus citriodorus, the lemon thyme or citrus thyme, is a lemon-scented evergreen mat-forming perennial plant in the family Lamiaceae. There has been a great amount of confusion over the plant's correct name and origin.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Thymus citriodorus
About the genus
The genus Thymus contains about 350 species of aromatic perennial herbaceous plants and subshrubs in the family Lamiaceae. It is native to the Mediterranean area of Europe, North Africa and Turkey.
Wikipedia contributors, "Thymus (plant)", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Thymus (plant)
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Thymus
- Sunlight
- full sun, partial shade
- Soil type
- well-drained, sandy or loamy
- Soil pH
- neutral, alkaline
- Soil moisture
- moderate
- Aspect
- south-facing
- Exposure
- sheltered to exposed
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Thymus citriodorus 'Variegata' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial herb
- Habit
- Bushy, Matforming
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- ground cover, herb garden, edging
- Native to
- Mediterranean region
- Fragrance
- lemon-scented
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Thymus citriodorus 'Variegata'
- Cultivation
- Prefers well-drained soil and full sun; drought tolerant once established.
- Pruning
- Light pruning after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.
- Propagation
- stem cuttings, division
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Thymus citriodorus 'Variegata'?
Prefers well-drained soil and full sun; drought tolerant once established.
Where is the best place to plant Thymus citriodorus 'Variegata'?
Thymus citriodorus 'Variegata' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered to exposed positions.
What soil does Thymus citriodorus 'Variegata' need?
Thymus citriodorus 'Variegata' grows best in well-drained and sandy or loamy soil. It prefers neutral and alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays moderate.
How do I prune Thymus citriodorus 'Variegata'?
Light pruning after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.
Is Thymus citriodorus 'Variegata' hardy in the UK?
Thymus citriodorus 'Variegata' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Thymus citriodorus 'Variegata'?
Stem cuttings, division.
