Thymus praecox 'Red Carpet', commonly known as red creeping thyme, is a low-growing, mat-forming perennial prized for its vibrant crimson-red flowers and aromatic foliage. This Thymus cultivar features small, oval-shaped leaves and produces a dense carpet of tiny, deep red flowers in summer. Its spreading habit and strong fragrance make it a valuable ground cover, rock garden plant, and addition to herb gardens, adding a touch of vivid colour and flavour to various settings. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family.
Origin: Thymus praecox is native to Europe. 'Red Carpet' is a cultivar selected for its intense red flower colour.
Light: Thymus praecox 'Red Carpet' thrives in full sun. It requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and fragrance.
Water: Water sparingly, especially once established. Allow the soil to dry out thoroughly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Soil: Thymus praecox 'Red Carpet' prefers well-drained, sandy or gravelly soil. It thrives in alkaline to neutral soil. Avoid heavy clay soils, which can retain too much moisture.
Fertilising: Thymus praecox 'Red Carpet' is not a heavy feeder. Fertilise sparingly in spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser. Avoid over-fertilising, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flavour and flowering.
Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering, removing spent flower heads and trimming back any leggy growth. In early spring, you can prune back harder to maintain shape and encourage dense growth.
Pests and Diseases: Thymus praecox 'Red Carpet' is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but keep an eye out for root rot, especially in poorly drained soils.
Uses: Thymus praecox 'Red Carpet' is primarily grown as a ground cover for its spreading habit and aromatic foliage. It's also used as a culinary herb, though less frequently than Thymus vulgaris. It is a popular choice for rock gardens, between stepping stones, and along pathways.
Toxicity: Thymus praecox 'Red Carpet' is generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets. However, it is always best to keep plants out of reach of pets and children who might try to eat them in large quantities.