Used since prehistoric times as a flavouring, especially for drinks, the smell alone was said to give courage and strength. A widespread plant of dunes, heath and rocks from the shore to the high mountains, it is a good plant for rock gardens and can be grown in cracks in paving or walls. It is creeping and mat-forming with purple flowers that are very attractive to bees. Forms cushions up to 10cm tall.

Sowing:  Can be sown at any time of year but best in early autumn or in spring. Sow in trays or pots of moist compost and transplant to an open, well drained site. Keep young plants watered & weeded.

• 5-10 cm tall
• 150-250 seeds per packet
• perennial