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Thymus pseudolanuginosus facts for kids

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Thymus pseudolanuginosus
Thymus pseudolanuginosus 1.jpg
Scientific classification
Genus:
Thymus (plant)
Species:
pseudolanuginosus
Synonyms
  • Thymus praecox subsp. britannicus (Ronniger) Holub

Woolly thyme, also known by its scientific name Thymus pseudolanuginosus, is a special type of plant. It's often called woolly thyme because its leaves and stems feel soft and fuzzy, just like wool! Scientists now also classify it as Thymus praecox subsp. britannicus.

What is Woolly Thyme Like?

Woolly thyme is a plant that grows low to the ground and spreads out, like a soft carpet. Its leaves and stems are covered in tiny hairs, which makes them feel woolly. It can sometimes be tricky to tell it apart from other types of thyme plants that also spread or have some hairs.

Scientists aren't completely sure where woolly thyme first came from. They think it might have originated somewhere in southern Europe.

The leaves of wild creeping thyme plants can look different. Some might be smooth, while others are covered in white hairs. These hairs can be thin or very thick on both sides of the leaf. Sometimes, only the edges of the leaves are hairy, especially near the bottom. Growing low to the ground and having hairy leaves might help the plant survive in cold, snowy places, like mountains.

Growing Woolly Thyme

People often grow Thymus pseudolanuginosus because it's a beautiful plant. It's known as an ornamental plant, which means it's grown for its looks.

  • It's often used as a groundcover. This means it spreads out and forms a thick, low mat over the ground. It can cover large areas.
  • It's also a popular choice for rock gardens. Its soft, spreading growth looks great among rocks.
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