Prostrate Sand-thyme
thesium humifusum
Also known as: ["Prostrate Sand-thyme","Dwarf Sand-thyme"]
Overview
A low-growing, mat-forming perennial herb with small, fleshy leaves and tiny, greenish-white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Santalales |
| Family: | Santalaceae |
| Genus: | Thesium |
| Botanical Name: | Thesium humifusum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or sunny borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season; major pruning in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, depending on the plant's condition and desired shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours per day. Can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to avoid scorching. Place in a spot with filtered light or dappled shade, especially during peak summer hours. Indoors, place near an east or north-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid direct midday sun; rotate plant for even light exposure; adjust for seasonal light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; maintain slightly acidic to neutral pH.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally between 50–70°F (10–21°C). Tolerates cooler temperatures but should be protected from frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; maintain moderate temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Use a balanced fertilizer; dilute to half strength; fertilize only during active growth.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rooted stems.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; keep soil consistently moist.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back leggy stems, remove dead or yellowing leaves, and shape the plant as needed.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with a diameter about 1–2 inches wider.
Method
Gently remove the plant from its pot, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. This helps refresh the soil and provides more space for growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; gently remove plant; trim roots if needed; repot and water.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. Ensure excess water drains away freely. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during spring and summer, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in fall and winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf discoloration or dieback. Prolonged exposure to frost can be fatal.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth or move indoors during cold snaps. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or premature flowering and seed set.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently to keep the root zone cool.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that consume Thesium humifusum may experience mild gastrointestinal issues. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause mild distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Thesium humifusum may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThesium humifusum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort in humans.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Thesium humifusum suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, it is well-suited for rock gardens due to its low-growing habit and drought tolerance.
Q: Does Thesium humifusum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its small, greenish-white flowers.
Q: How often should Thesium humifusum be watered?
A: It is drought-tolerant and requires infrequent watering, especially in well-drained soils.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Santalaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
