Thyme (garden thyme)
Thymus vulgaris
A small woody culinary herb with tiny opposite aromatic leaves and pale pink-purple flowers. Leaves are used fresh or dried in soups, sauces and other dishes. This is a cultivated herb reference, rather than a claim that all local creeping thymes are this species.
Native range
The western Mediterranean region, including southwestern Europe; widely cultivated.
Typical season
Ontario's crop profile recommends cutting before flowering and describes repeated harvests after the first year. Winter survival and planting conditions vary; no reviewed monthly local picking calendar is assigned.
Identification
Confirm the small leaves, woody branching stems, flowers and planting identity together. Thymus vulgaris differs from creeping thyme species and garden hybrids. Aroma is not a sufficient identification. Use culinary leaves, not an unidentified groundcover or concentrated oil; garden harvest requires permission.