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Thyme
Thymus vulgaris · Lamiaceae
How it looks
Thyme is a small herb with small, round grey-green leaves densely arranged opposite along slender stems. Rubbing the leaves releases a strong thyme aroma. Small pink to pale purple flowers gather at the branch tips. It reaches 4-12 in (10-30 cm) tall and spreads sideways.
Thyme is listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA. An occasional nibble is unlikely to cause any real trouble.
Guide for parents
One note on species first. This page rests on the ASPCA verdict for common thyme (Thymus vulgaris), the culinary herb. Other thymes sold under the same name, such as Thymus quinquecostatus, are different species and are not on that list, so no cat-specific verdict covers them.
Even with a safe plant, make a habit of picking up fallen leaves the same day.
If your cat likes to dig in or eat potting soil, fertilizer ingredients can upset their stomach — covering the soil with pebbles works well.
If it comes home as a cut stem, florists often treat it with preservatives, so place the vase where your cat can't drink the water.
Details
- Scientific name
- Thymus vulgaris
- Common name
- Thyme
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Source
- ASPCA cats plant list
Related plants
Same plant family· Lamiaceae
Other safe flowers
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