Thyme 'Golden Queen'

Derived as a cultivar from English thyme, (Thymus Citridorus) Golden Queen  is a delightful cultivar of lemon thyme, celebrated for its vibrant foliage and aromatic qualities. The leaves are variegated with green and gold colouration, which smell of lemons when crushed.

When it becomes established, it typically grows to a height of 8 – 12 inches ( 20-30 cm) and a spread of approximately 8 inches (20 cm). If space allows, the plant is ideally planted in a triangular layout so the foliage merges together to form a carpet.Its growth habit is mounded and bushy, making it also suitable for containers and hanging baskets.

It likes a well drained  alkaline to neutral soil, with full sun exposure, it hates being water logged, and is relatively drought resistant once well established.

Once established it flowers in late spring to early summer, with pale pink, or lilac spikes. It should be pruned back hard after flowering to maintain a compact growing habit. It also benefits from being given fertilizer to encourage strong growth.

The plant encourages wildlife, attracting bees and pollinators when in flower. Again, this herb is a valuable contributor to culinary use when forming part of a herb garden.