Thymus 'Fragrantissimus'


Common name(s): rose-scented thyme


Description: A unique cultivar of uncertain origin prior to 1932 with slightly fuzzy, grayish leaves that have a pleasant rose scent. An adventurous choice for culinary application and makes an excellent herbal tea.


Height: to 1 ft. Spread: to 1 ft.


Position: full sun and well-draining soil


Uses: culinary- in any recipe that calls for thyme, thyme tea, sachets & potpourri


Winter Hardiness: to 5 F and below

Notes: many suppliers list an orange-scented thyme as  Thymus 'Fragrantissimus' which is not congruent with historical records. A 1926 excerpt from California Garden Vol. 18-19 reads as follows:


"Among the plants which are "fast of their scent" are several commendable Thymes, of which, perhaps, the sweetest is a variety of Thymus vulgaris found by Messrs. Thompson and Morgan in an old cottage garden and published by them under the name var. fragrantissimus. This is a trailer with grey leaves and a soft, lemony scent that contains a suggestion of Rose-Geranium."