"Thyme" in Greek means "incense smoking" - it was lit in the temples to obtain a tart flavor. In addition, this plant has long been considered a symbol of courage. That is why the ancient Roman warriors before the important battles took baths or drank strong fragrant tea from this herb. A branch of thyme was embroidered even on the clothes of knights, symbolizing fearlessness and courage in battle.
Thyme, thyme, Bogorodskaya grass - all these are the names of one plant, which is a low-growing perennial shrub with delicate purple small flowers collected in neat tassels. There is a wide variety of varieties of this extraordinary plant. The most common are creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum) and lemon thyme (Thymus citriodorus). The latter is particularly interesting in that each of its leaves is decorated with a white border. This wonder is especially pleasing to the owners with its sunny coloring.
Thyme, growing from seeds of which can cause certain difficulties, will gladly grow in your country house, but will not disdain a flower pot. In this case, spicy grass will delight you all year round with an incredible smell.
Many gardeners want to get a plant like thyme in their collection. Growing from seeds takes place in early spring - best of all, thyme (another name for thyme) is propagated by seedlings: young seedlings will quickly take root and take root much better, and next year you will already have your own small rug from this lovely shrub. Thyme should be planted at a distance of 30-40 cm with spacing of 50 cm. And even a variety of Bogorodskaya grass will not refuse timely watering and fertilizing.
Quite often, on the dry slopes of the south of Russia, small purple flowers are found, spreading with a dense carpet. This is thyme. Growing it from seeds can be a bit tricky because young plants grow very slowly and you have to constantly fight weeds throughout the season. However, next year the Bogorodsk grass will already be able to cope with them itself.
Of course, it is much easier and faster to plant this plant in your flowerbed by dividing the bush. Thyme, growing from seeds of which is a rather laborious process, is suitable only for hardworking gardeners with the patience to wait until the next year.
It is impossible not to mention the healing properties of thyme: it is an excellent diuretic, helps with headaches, and also promotes the rapid healing of insect bites. Bogorodskaya grass also has anti-inflammatory, analgesic and expectorant properties. In just a few days you can get rid of a painful cough, using it as an infusion to rinse your mouth and throat.
But the main reason for the popularity of thyme is its use in cooking. It perfectly complements not only meat and fish dishes, but also salads, omelets, side dishes, sauces, dressings, etc. Many chefs simply cannot imagine dishes without this fragrant seasoning.