Thymus serpyllum
A vigorous mat-forming ground cover growing 2 to 4 inches tall and spreading 12 to 18 inches, with small aromatic dark green leaves on wiry creeping stems. It performs best in full sun with good drainage and is highly drought tolerant once established, requiring only low to moderate water. Clusters of rosy purple to pink flowers blanket the mat in early to midsummer and draw heavy bee activity. Well suited as a lawn substitute, for filling between stepping stones and pavers, edging borders, planting in parking strips, and stabilizing dry slopes for erosion control.