Rock Thyme Herb Seeds (Acinos alpinus) Alpine Catmint,Perennial Groundcover

Acinos alpinus — Rock Thyme, also known as Alpine Calamint — is a rarely seen but exceptionally rewarding perennial groundcover for dry, rocky, and alpine-inspired gardens. A close relative of culinary thyme, it forms dense, cushiony mats of tiny, aromatic evergreen leaves topped from June through October with dainty violet tubular flowers marked with red and white. Hardy, long-lived (up to 10 years), and requiring almost no maintenance, this is the plant for the sun-baked spots where other groundcovers struggle.

Plant Highlights

• Compact, mat-forming groundcover; 12 inches tall, 10 inches spread
• Violet flowers with red and white markings; blooms June–October
• Aromatic evergreen foliage — leaves are edible in cooked dishes and make a flavorful tea
• Attracts bees and butterflies; excellent honey-bee plant
• Thrives in poor, dry soils — drought-tolerant once established
• Ideal for rock gardens, alpine gardens, wall crevices, container edges, and border fronts
• No significant pest or disease issues

Growing Guide

Light: Full sun only — this plant demands it and rewards it with dense, compact growth and prolific flowering.

Soil: Dry to average moisture; excellent drainage is essential — standing water will kill it. Not pH-sensitive; performs best in poor soils where richer plants would outcompete it.

Water: Drought-tolerant; minimal irrigation needed once established. Avoid overwatering.

Maintenance: Low. Clean up in early spring before new growth resumes. Can be propagated by division.

Landscape Uses

General borders, mass planting, container edging, groundcover, rock and alpine gardens. Excellent for xeriscape designs and pollinator gardens.

Planting Specs

• Type: Perennial (evergreen)
• Height: 12 inches | Spread: 10 inches
• Bloom season: June–October
• Light: Full sun
• Soil: Dry to average, well-drained, poor soils preferred
• Drought tolerant: Yes
• Expected lifespan: Up to 10 years under ideal conditions