Thyme is a perennial native to the Mediterranean. Most varieties grow to only six to twelve inches in height, and they make an attractive edging for the perennial border.
Leaves are dark gray-green in color, and pale pink flowers bloom at the tips of the stems in summer.
For fresh use, the flavor is best just before flowering. Enhance the flavor of meat, fish and poultry dishes with thyme. For chicken and fish marinades, bruise fresh sprigs of thyme and tarragon, and combine with red-wine vinegar and olive oil. Use in herb butters and cottage cheese. Thymol apparently also has a therapeutic effect on the lungs.