Overview
Thymus vulgaris 'Aranjuez' is a matforming alpine rockery in the genus Thymus, part of the Lamiaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Thymus vulgaris 'Aranjuez' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include coastal, gravel garden, patio and container plants, rock garden, wildlife gardens, city and courtyard gardens and cottage and informal garden.
About
Thymus vulgaris 'Aranjuez' is a cultivar of thyme, an evergreen, woody perennial in the Lamiaceae family. This matforming plant features small, fragrant leaves typical of the Thymus genus and thrives in full sun on well-drained, fertile soils such as chalk, loam, or sand with neutral to alkaline pH. It is hardy to UK zone H5 and is suitable for a variety of garden settings including rock gardens, coastal areas, patios, and wildlife gardens. In late spring and summer, it produces clusters of small, tubular flowers that enhance its ornamental appeal.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Thymus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Thymus vulgaris 'Aranjuez' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Alpine Rockery, Shrubs, Herbs - Culinary
- Habit
- Matforming
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Coastal, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden, Wildlife gardens, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Thymus vulgaris 'Aranjuez'
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed or division, in spring. Semi-hardwood cuttings may be taken in mid- to late-summer although some bottom heat may be required
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Thymus vulgaris 'Aranjuez'?
Thymus vulgaris 'Aranjuez' prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Thymus vulgaris 'Aranjuez' need?
Thymus vulgaris 'Aranjuez' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Thymus vulgaris 'Aranjuez' hardy in the UK?
Thymus vulgaris 'Aranjuez' 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 vulgaris 'Aranjuez'?
Propagate by seed or division, in spring. Semi-hardwood cuttings may be taken in mid- to late-summer although some bottom heat may be required.
More in the Thymus genus
- Thymus 'Magic Carpet'thyme 'Magic Carpet'
- Thymus 'Provence'
- Thymus (Coccineus Group) 'Purpurteppich'thyme 'Purpurteppich'
- Thymus citriodorus
- Thymus integer
- Thymus kotschyanus
- Thymus longiflorus
- Thymus mastichinaherb mastic
