Basil thyme
Clinopodium acinos · Lamiaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant basil thyme: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- June to September
- Mature size
- 15 to 30 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Hardy down to -15°C
- Origin
- Mediterranean region and Central Europe
- Soil type
- Well-drained, dry to moderately moist
Care
Exposure
Acinos calamintha appreciates a sunny location, with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. It tolerates partial shade but will flower more generously in full sun. Avoid overly shaded areas that would reduce flower density.
Watering
Water moderately during the growing period, particularly at planting time. Once established, this plant tolerates drought well and requires only occasional watering during prolonged heat. Reduce watering considerably in winter.
Soil
Acinos calamintha prefers well-drained soil, even poor or chalky soil, making it ideal for dry gardens and rockeries. Avoid heavy, compact soils that would retain moisture. A light application of compost at planting is more than sufficient.
Pruning and trimming
Pinch young plants to encourage a compact, bushy habit. After flowering, cut back the plant lightly to maintain its shape. Light spring pruning rejuvenates the foliage and encourages branching.
Fertilizer
Undemanding, acinos calamintha requires only a light fertilizer application in spring if the soil is poor. Avoid excess nitrogen fertilizer which would promote foliage at the expense of flowers.
Diseases and pests
This plant is generally very healthy and rarely subject to disease. Powdery mildew may appear in humid conditions; improve air circulation in such cases. No major pests particularly affect it under good growing conditions.
Did you know?
Acinos calamintha was once called 'mountain tea' by Mediterranean shepherds who harvested it in the wild to prepare tonic infusions. This small aromatic plant long served in traditional medicine for its supposed digestive and antiseptic properties.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- LavenderLavandula angustifolia
- ThymeThymus vulgaris
- BasilOcimum basilicum
- SageSalvia officinalis
- RosemarySalvia rosmarinus
- BugleAjuga reptans
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.