Thyme - Orange Peel

Common Name:
Orange Peel Thyme

Description:
Orange Peel Thyme is a low-growing, aromatic herb valued for its dense, spreading habit and distinctive citrus fragrance. Its small, glossy green leaves release a warm orange scent when crushed, making it a popular choice for culinary use, ornamental planting, and sensory gardens. During late spring to summer, it produces delicate clusters of tiny pale pink to lilac flowers that attract bees and other beneficial pollinators. Well-suited to Melbourne’s climate, this hardy perennial thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil, tolerating dry conditions once established. Orange Peel Thyme is ideal as a ground cover, between stepping stones, or cascading over edges, forming a neat, weed-suppressing mat. Regular light pruning encourages compact growth and maintains its lush appearance.

Form:
Ground Cover
Shrub - Clumping / Grass-like / Mounding

Mature Size:
Height: 0.05–0.15 m
Width: 0.3–0.6 m

Aspect:
Full Sun

Flowering:
Flowers in Summer

Flower Colour:
Pale pink
Lilac

Key Attributes:
Bee Attracting
Drought Tolerant
Edible Leaves
Fragrant foliage
Herbaceous
Perennial
Suitable for Pots

Toxicity:
Generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets when used in typical culinary quantities.

Companion Plants:
Rosemary
Lavender
Oregano
Sage
Strawberries