Thyme is a versatile herb that can be used for both culinary and ornamental purposes. While all types of thyme are edible, some varieties are more commonly used in cooking, while others are primarily used as ground covers or for their decorative qualities.
In terms of culinary thyme, there are several varieties that are highly regarded for their flavor and aroma. Common Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is the most widely used variety in cooking and is known for its earthy and slightly minty flavor. This variety is often used in soups, stews, roasted meats, and vegetables.
Lemon Thyme (Thymus citriodorus) is another popular culinary thyme variety. As the name suggests, it has a strong lemony fragrance and flavor, making it a great addition to fish dishes, marinades, and even desserts like lemon bars or sorbets.
Other culinary thyme varieties include French Thyme (Thymus vulgaris ‘French’), which has a milder flavor compared to the common thyme, and Caraway Thyme (Thymus herba-barona), which has a unique caraway-like flavor that pairs well with potatoes and root vegetables.
While these culinary thyme varieties are primarily grown for their flavor, it’s worth mentioning that they can also be used as ground covers or in mixed perennial beds to add beauty and texture to the garden. Their low-growing habit and tiny leaves make them a charming addition to any landscape.
On the other hand, there are thyme varieties that are primarily grown for their ornamental qualities. These varieties may have less intense flavors or aromas compared to culinary thyme, but they make up for it with their stunning foliage and growth habits.
Some popular ornamental thyme varieties include Woolly Thyme (Thymus pseudolanuginosus), which has fuzzy silver-gray leaves, and Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum), which forms a dense mat of tiny leaves and produces delicate pink or purple flowers in the summer.
When it comes to using thyme for culinary purposes, it’s important to note that the leaves are the most commonly used part of the plant. Simply pluck the leaves from the stems and chop or crush them before adding them to your dishes. Thyme leaves can be used fresh or dried, and they retain their flavor well when dried.
All types of thyme are indeed edible, but some are more commonly used for culinary purposes while others are primarily grown for their ornamental qualities. Whether you’re looking to add flavor to your dishes or bring beauty to your garden, thyme is a versatile herb that can fulfill both roles.
