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Thymus × citriodorus 'Archer's Gold'
Confirmed format: 9cm potted herb
Plant Highlights
Bright golden-yellow aromatic foliage
Fresh lemon-scented leaves for culinary use
Soft pink flowers attract bees and other pollinators
Thrives in full sun and free-draining soil
Excellent for herb gardens, edging and containers
Thymus × citriodorus 'Archer's Gold' is a colourful evergreen lemon thyme grown for its fragrant golden foliage and compact, spreading habit. The small leaves release a fresh citrus aroma when brushed or harvested, making them an excellent addition to fish dishes, poultry, vegetables, salads and herb butters. The vibrant golden colouring also provides long-lasting ornamental interest throughout the growing season.
In summer, clusters of small pale pink flowers appear above the foliage, attracting bees and other beneficial pollinating insects. Its low-growing habit makes it ideal for edging paths, planting in gravel gardens, herb beds, alpine areas and patio containers where both its fragrance and foliage colour can be appreciated.
Bright golden foliage adds colour throughout the year.
Lemon-scented leaves are ideal for fresh culinary use.
Flowers provide a valuable nectar source for pollinating insects.
Compact habit suits containers and smaller gardens.
Easy to grow and drought tolerant once established.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Thymus × citriodorus 'Archer's Gold' |
| Common Name | Golden Lemon Thyme |
| Plant Type | Evergreen perennial herb |
| Edible Part | Aromatic leaves |
| Foliage | Small golden-yellow leaves with a fresh lemon fragrance |
| Flowering Period | Early to mid-summer |
| Flowers | Small pale pink flowers |
| Growth Habit | Low-growing, bushy and gently spreading |
| Position | Full sun |
| Soil | Well-drained, moderately fertile soil |
| Mature Height | Approximately 10–15cm |
| Mature Spread | Approximately 30–45cm |
| Hardiness | Hardy in most Irish gardens when grown in free-draining soil |
Plant in a sunny, open position where it receives plenty of direct sunlight. Full sun encourages the brightest foliage colour and the strongest lemon fragrance.
Water regularly while establishing. Once established, plants become drought tolerant and generally only require watering during prolonged dry periods. Container-grown herbs should be watered when the compost begins to dry.
Grow in free-draining soil. Avoid heavy, waterlogged conditions, particularly during winter. Sandy or gravelly soils are ideal, and adding horticultural grit will improve drainage where required.
Suitable for year-round outdoor cultivation in most Irish gardens. Good drainage during winter is essential to maintain healthy roots and evergreen foliage.
Harvest little and often to encourage compact new growth. Trim lightly after flowering to maintain a neat shape and prevent stems becoming woody. Avoid cutting back into old, leafless wood.
Kitchen and herb gardens.
Raised vegetable beds.
Gravel and Mediterranean-style gardens.
Patio containers.
Pollinator-friendly planting.
'Archer's Gold' is grown for both its ornamental value and culinary qualities. The foliage develops its richest golden colour in full sun, while the fresh lemon fragrance makes it an excellent herb for cooking and garnishing.
Botanical identity: Thymus × citriodorus 'Archer's Gold'
Supplied in a 9cm nursery pot.
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