Lemon Thyme (Thymus x Citriodorus)
Lemon thyme
(Thymus Citriodorus)
I knew I wanted to plant a tea garden for a long time, but I had no idea lemon thyme would be a part of my initial purchase to start one in 2014. I was honestly just trying to make the most of shipping, and I vaguely remembered a friend in Istanbul that had a potted one in their home, which they used it to scent their hands after cooking with fish or smoking. I made sure both varieties (lemon thyme and chrysanthemum) were perennial to help my inexperienced-self to have an advantage on acquiring this new gardening skill. Thankfully, it proved successful. ;)
Growing lemon thyme at home
Botanical Name: Thymus Citriodorus
Common Name(s): Lemon Thyme
Growing Zone: 5-9
Lighting Conditions: FS
Average Height: 12 inches
Uses: Aromatic, Culinary, Medicinal, Ornamental
Harvest Season: Year-Round
Source: Companion Plants
Harvesting Lemon Thyme
(Thymus Citriodorus)
- Harvest during early morning hours to ensure maximum potency of plant oils.
- Regardless of how much you may need to take, always leave about 30% of the green plant material intact so it may have enough energy to bounce back.
- The pink/lavender flower blooms are edible and can be added to various culinary applications.
Benefits of lemon thyme
(thymus x citriodorus)
The compounds in lemon thyme can help to treat and prevent conditions like: Respiratory tract ailments: Compounds like thymol can provide relief from bronchitis, whooping cough and similar illnesses. Gastrointestinal ailments: Lemon thyme can be used to treat gastritis along with bloating and indigestion.
Source: SPICEography
Using Lemon Thyme
(thymus x citriodorus)
This culinary herb is very versatile, it works in savory dishes with proteins like chicken and fish, but also lends its citrus-y notes well to dessert dishes and baked goods. Though this is not limited to just culinary use, you can also use it in your own DIY cleaners by steeping the herb in some white vinegar. (There are many recipes on Pinterest!) You can even create an herb-bouquet to gift to friends, family and loved ones! #easypeasylemonsqueezy ;)