Spanish Thyme (Mastic Thyme)

Thymus mastichina

It's naturally found growing well on dry hills, rocky ground and roadsides. The leaves can be used as a seasoning. They have a pungent eucalyptus-like aroma. If the leaves are to be dried, the plants should be harvested in early and late summer just before the flowers open and the leaves should be dried quickly. The plant is also the source of an essential oil, called "oil of marjoram", that is used extensively as a flavouring for soups etc.

The essential oil obtained from the leaves is also used in perfumery, as a mouth wash, medicinally etc.

The leaves, and especially the essential oil contained in them, are strongly antiseptic, deodorant and disinfectant. The plant can be used fresh at any time of the year, or it can be harvested as it comes into flower and either be distilled for the oil or dried for later use.

The plant prefers light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and requires well-drained soil.The plant prefers acid, neutral and basic (alkaline) soils..It cannot grow in the shade.It requires dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought easily.

Very pretty white/cream 'fluffy' flowers.