Creeping Thyme

About this plant

Thymus serpyllum 'Coccineus', commonly known as Creeping Thyme, is an exceptional choice for gardeners seeking a durable, low-maintenance groundcover that delivers stunning visual impact and a delightful aroma. This cultivar forms a dense, evergreen carpet of tiny, dark green leaves that release a subtle, herbaceous scent when brushed, making it perfect for pathways or between stepping stones. In late spring to early summer, 'Coccineus' erupts with a profusion of tiny, starry magenta-pink flowers that virtually cover the foliage. These vibrant blooms are a magnet for pollinators, adding lively activity to your garden while providing a rich splash of color. Its prostrate growth habit makes it ideal for softening hard edges, filling crevices, or serving as a charming lawn alternative in low-traffic areas. Beyond its beauty, Creeping Thyme is incredibly tough. It thrives in sunny, well-drained conditions, tolerates foot traffic, and is remarkably drought-tolerant once established. Its ability to suppress weeds and adapt to various landscape challenges makes 'Coccineus' a truly versatile and valuable addition to rock gardens, borders, or any sunny spot needing a touch of enduring charm.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Plant in well-drained soil. Water regularly until established, then reduce frequency as it is quite drought tolerant. Trim lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage dense growth. Requires minimal fertilization.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.