A beautiful, low-growing variety of creeping thyme, Thymus serpyllum ‘Snowdrift’ forms a dense mat of tiny, aromatic green leaves topped with a flurry of pure white flowers in summer. This evergreen groundcover is perfect for softening the edges of paths, filling gaps in paving, or spilling over walls and rockeries. It’s drought-tolerant, low-maintenance, and a magnet for pollinators.
Thymus serpyllum ‘Snowdrift’, commonly known as White Creeping Thyme or Snowdrift Thyme, combines ornamental charm with culinary potential – ideal for both practical and decorative garden spaces.
Perennial
Mat-forming, Evergreen, Summer Interest
Flowers: June–August
Foliage: Year-round
Scientific Name
Thymus serpyllum ‘Snowdrift’ (from Greek thymos, meaning “to fumigate,” and serpyllum, meaning “to creep”)
Synonyms
None widely used
Common Name
White Creeping Thyme, Snowdrift Thyme
Origin
Cultivated variety; species native to Europe and North Africa
Pruning Tips
Trim lightly after flowering to keep a neat shape and encourage fresh growth. Avoid hard pruning into old woody stems.
Wildlife Value
Excellent nectar source – especially attractive to bees and hoverflies.
Positioning
Full sun is essential. Ideal for rockeries, gravel gardens, walls, pots, or as a living mulch between stepping stones.
Water
Water regularly during establishment. Once settled, it is very drought-tolerant and thrives in dry conditions.
Soil
Requires well-drained soil. Prefers poor, sandy, or stony soils. Avoid heavy, damp soils – improve drainage if needed.
Food
Little to no feeding required. Over-fertilising reduces scent and flowering.
Pet-safe
Non-toxic and safe for pets.
Sprouts Top Tips
This thyme releases its fragrance when walked on, making it perfect for sunny paths and stepping stone borders – plant in cracks and crevices to enjoy its scent with every step.
