Caraway Thyme

Thymus herba-barona

Physical Characteristics

Thymus herba-barona is an evergreen Shrub growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in) by 0.3 m (1ft) at a slow rate. It is not frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

S. Europe - Mediterranean in Sardinia and Corsica.

Habitats

Ground Cover; Cultivated Beds; East Wall. In. South Wall. In. West Wall. In.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Condiment The herb has a fragrance reminiscent of caraway seeds and is an excellent flavouring for soups, vegetables etc[183]. It is especially used with garlic[200]. 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[200].

Medicinal Uses

Antiseptic Deodorant Disinfectant The leaves, and especially the essential oil contained in them, are strongly antiseptic, deodorant and disinfectant[200, 238]. 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[238].

Known Hazards

None known