Thymus citriodorus - Tomillo limón

Description

*Thymus citriodorus*, commonly known as lemon thyme, is a low-growing perennial herb with small, green, fragrant leaves that release a strong lemon scent when rubbed. Its delicate pink or lilac flowers bloom in spring and summer, attracting bees and other pollinating insects. It is an excellent choice for herb gardens, borders, and containers.

Origin and History

Native to the Mediterranean regions, lemon thyme has been used for centuries in both culinary and traditional medicine. Its distinctive citrus aroma sets it apart from other types of thyme, making it particularly popular in Mediterranean and European cuisines.

Care 

*Thymus citriodorus* is a hardy, low-maintenance plant. It prefers well-drained soils and sunny locations. Although it tolerates poor soils, it thrives in slightly sandy conditions. It’s ideal for xeriscapes, borders, and containers, as it requires little space and minimal care.

Watering  

Lemon thyme is drought-tolerant and requires moderate watering. During its growing phase, regular watering is recommended, but once established, it only needs occasional watering. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root damage.

Pruning  

Prune *Thymus citriodorus* after flowering to maintain a compact shape and stimulate new growth. Branches can also be trimmed at any time to harvest fresh leaves, ensuring enough foliage is left for continued growth.

Curiosity 

In addition to its culinary use, adding a citrus touch to meats, fish, and salads, lemon thyme has antibacterial properties and has been used in teas to relieve colds and aid digestion. It’s also valued by gardeners, as its aroma helps repel certain insects, serving as a natural barrier in the garden.