Thyme Lemon 

Thymus citrodorus

Thyme is a small, prostrate perennial herb growing 20-30cm tall. It is a useful ground cover for rockeries and garden borders and is also suitable for container growing. The most aromatic thyme is the common garden species, which grows wild in southern Europe on stoney hillsides and has been cultivated for hundreds of years. A perennial, shrubby, woody plant with narrow grey, paired leaves and small, white or pale purple flowers that are attractive to bees. Thyme is one of the most basic and important herbs used in Mediterranean food as it blends naturally with garlic, olives, tomatoes and wine. It is often used fresh or dried in soups, stews and in seasoning for poultry, meat and fish dishes. The leaves contain several strong oils which have antiseptic and preservative qualities. An infusion of the leaves makes a good hot tea which is useful for minor respiratory illnesses, such as colds and coughs. Refer to Cultural Information Table for more details. Lemon Thyme has a wonderful lemon flavour and is used wherever that taste is desired. It is especially useful with teas, salads, fish, poultry and desserts. It has a larger, broader leaf having a sharp lemon scent and warm flavour that complements fish and eggs in creamy sauces. It grows into a compact, cushion shape with rounded leaves and pale purple flowers.