Magic Carpet Thyme

‘Magic Carpet’ Creeping Thyme – Care Guide

Overview & Key Characteristics

• Botanical name: Thymus serpyllum ‘Magic Carpet’. 

• Common name: Magic Carpet Thyme

• Hardiness: USDA Zones 4–9 (with good care likely viable in sheltered parts of Zone 3) — note that typical listings say Zone 4 as minimum. 

• Habit: Very low‑growing (often 2–5 cm tall) spreading mat; spread ~30 cm or more. 

• Flowers: Magenta‑pink flower clusters in early to mid‑summer. 

• Foliage: Aromatic, gray‑green to green leaves; releases scent when brushed. 

Sunlight & Location

• Requires full sun for best bloom and form (at least 6 hours/day) — in shade it may become leggy and bloom less. 

• Ideal for sunny, open areas: rock gardens, between pavers, edging, ground cover, slopes. 

Soil & Planting Conditions

• Prefers well‑drained soil — sandy or gritty soils are ideal. It does not like heavy, soggy clay. 

• Soil fertility: Tolerant of poor soils — heavy feeding not needed. 

• Planting: Space plants about 6–12 inches apart (15–30 cm), depending on how fast you want the mat to fill. 

Watering & Maintenance

• Establishment: Water regularly during first growing season until well‑rooted. After that, it becomes drought‑tolerant. 

• Mature care: Because of excellent drainage needs, avoid overwatering or waterlogging. Root rot is a risk in poorly drained sites. 

• Fertilizer: Minimal required. A light top‑dress of compost in spring is sufficient. 

• Pruning/maintenance: After bloom, you may lightly shear to maintain neatness and encourage fresh growth. Older woody stems can be trimmed back in late winter/early spring. 

Cold‑Climate / Zone 3 Considerations

• Although rated to Zone 4 minimum, in sheltered spots with good sun and drainage it should perform well in Zone 3 with perhaps a light mulch in winter in very exposed sites.

• Ensure the site does not have standing water or heavy frost pockets. Choose a raised bed or slope if necessary.

• Its low‑profile habit means it can hug the ground, which can help buffer against cold but also means snow cover might suppress bloom under heavy snow.