Thymus citriodorus Doone Valley (Lemon Thyme)

Thymus citriodorus ‘Doone Valley’ (Lemon Thyme) is an aromatic, mat-forming, evergreen sub-shrub with a pleasant lemony fragrance. The foliage of small, edible, rounded leaves is dark green, tipped with bright gold in fall and winter. In early to mid-summer, the plant is smothered in spikes of small, tubular, lavender-pink flowers that are attractive to bees and butterflies.

Thymus citriodorus 'Doone Valley' (Lemon Thyme) is an aromatic, mat-forming, evergreen sub-shrub with a pleasant lemony fragrance. The foliage of small, edible, rounded leaves is dark green, tipped with bright gold in fall and winter. In early to mid-summer, the plant is smothered in spikes of small, tubular, lavender-pink flowers that are attractive to bees and butterflies. Can be used in between flagstones and will tolerate moderate foot traffic. Equally lovely in mixed borders or in containers where it will gracefully spill over the edges.

  • Grows up to 2-4 in. tall (5-10 cm) and 12-24 in. wide (30-60 cm).
  • A full sun lover, this plant is best grown in most well-drained alkaline to neutral soils. Drought tolerant, once established.
  • Virtually disease and pest free. Deer and rabbit resistant.
  • Perfect for edging or border fronts where a few of its stems may occasionally be crushed under foot to release their wonderful citrus scent. This plant adds character to rock gardens, Mediterranean gardens, cottage gardens, and herb gardens. Great for containers too!
  • Propagate by division in spring. Semi-hardwood cuttings may be taken in mid- to late-summer, although some bottom heat may be required

Requirements

Hardiness 6
– 9

Heat Zones 6
– 9

Climate Zones 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Plant Type Herbs, Shrubs
Plant Family Thymus – Thyme
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early,Mid,Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)FallWinter
Height 2"
– 4"
(5cm
– 10cm)
Spread 1'
– 2'
(30cm
– 60cm)
Spacing 12″
– 24″
(30cm
– 60cm)
Water Needs Low
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Fragrant, Showy, Evergreen
Tolerance Deer, Drought, Rabbit
Attracts Bees, Butterflies
Garden Uses Ground Covers, Patio and Containers
Garden Styles Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage, Mediterranean Garden