Taxonomy
- Family Name: Lamiaceae
- Botanical Name: Thymus pulegioides
- Common Name: Broad-leaved thyme, larger wild thyme, large thyme, greater wild thyme, lemon thyme
Description
Thymus pulegioides, also known as broad-leaved thyme, is a fragrant, evergreen, perennial dwarf shrub that measures 8 – 12 inches tall. It blooms mid-summer with tiny tubular rose-purple flowers on each of the hairy, erect stems.
The specific epithet “pulegioides” highlights its similarity to another species within Lamiaceae, Mentha pulegium (pennyroyal).
Toxicity
Thymus pulegioides is not toxic and can be used for culinary purposes. It is best harvested before the flowers open.
References:
Synonyms:
Thymus serpyllum subsp. lanuginosus, Thymus lanuginosus
Disclaimer: Vancouver Island Master Gardeners Association (VIMGA) does not advise or recommend herbs for medicinal or health use. Any information in the recommended resources should be regarded as being for educational purposes only and should not be considered as a recommendation or an endorsement of any medical or health treatment.
Photo: Dave Riddell
Text: Veronica Wills