Thymbra spicata
Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae
What it is like
Thymbra spicata is an evergreen Shrub growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.
Height (m): 0.5
Where it is found
Dry sunny hillsides. High dry meadows in Greece.
S. Europe - Greece to W. Asia.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
The plant is occasionally used as a condiment. The flavour of its essential oils is similar to those of Origanum syriacum, Thymus capitatus and Satureia thymbra.
Condiment: the various plants that are used as flavourings, either as herbs, spices or condiments.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
The plant is used as an incense.
Incense: Aromatic plants that can be burnt to impart a pleasant smell, repel insects and disinfect closed areas.
Attracts Wildlife: Plants noted for attracting wildlife
How it is grown
Succeeds in a sunny position in most well-drained soils. This species is not hardy in the colder areas of the country, it tolerates temperatures down to between -5 and -10°c. A good bee plant.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a frame. Division in spring. Larger divisions can be planted out direct into their permanent positions. We have found that it is best to pot up smaller divisions and grow them on in light shade in a greenhouse or cold frame until they are growing away well. Plant them out in the summer or the following spring.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; South Wall. In. West Wall. In.
Habit: Shrub
Hardiness: 7-10
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist