Thyme

Description

Thyme is a particularly pretty evergreen shrub, often used for decorative purposes; its height varies, according to the species grown, from a few centimetres to more than thirty or so; the habit of thyme also varies and can be erect or creeping. The latter is perfectly suited to creating splendid lawns, dense and colourful, which give off, especially when walked on, a heady scent of lemon, cumin or pine, that is, the aroma typical of the variety planted. Thyme can also be grown in pots.

Stem

The slender stem of thyme is greenish brown and becomes woody from the second year after planting.

Leaves

The very small leaves, very aromatic, they can be light green, bright green or golden, but also grey or silver, and are sometimes covered with down.

Flowers

The flowers are gathered in small spikes and their colours range from white to crimson, passing through shades of pink and lilac.

Exposure

Like most aromatic plants, thyme loves the sun.

Propagation

The simplest method of propagation is dividing the clumps or taking cuttings, which can be detached at any time of the year, except in winter.

Growth

It is advisable to leave at least twenty centimetres or so between one plant and the next; in summer it is also good to prune lightly and often to keep the clumps compact.

Harvesting

The leaves should be picked when the plant is in flower and the aroma is at its peak.

Storage

The cut stems should be dried in the shade, in a dry, well-ventilated place; in this way they will keep their characteristic stimulating scent intact for a long time.

Properties

IN THE KITCHEN: The aroma of common thyme has been appreciated since time immemorial, since it whets the appetite and aids the digestion of fats. Thyme leaves are used above all with meat and poultry, but they also add flavour to fish dishes to good effect.

Beauty

Thyme has a high cleansing power, so acne sufferers should rinse their skin, after the usual washing, with a thyme infusion.

Health

Because of its antiseptic properties thyme is considered a good natural bactericide and can be applied, as a healing agent, to small wounds or skin complaints, after being blended and made into a poultice. Thyme also has excellent digestive properties: to obtain a beneficial infusion, simply put a pinch of leaves in a teacup filled with boiling water; sweeten with honey if necessary.

Curiosity

In ancient times the aroma of thyme, perhaps because it is so intense and vigorous, was believed to instil courage, so soldiers invigorated their bodies by washing in thyme water, and strengthened their spirits by drinking thyme tisanes. Legends tell that, thanks to its scent, the thyme flower is the fairies' favourite, and reality confirms that, for the same reason, it is much loved by bees.