Upright and prostrate varieties, small (1/8-1/4 inch long) slightly pointed leaves--ranging from glossy dark green to woolly silver or variegated green and gold--are highly aromatic; woody stems; tiny star-like flowers bloom throughout the summer in shades from crimson to pink or white.

Thyme's main medicinal role is in treating coughs and clearing congestion. It makes an excellent gargle or mouthwash for sore throats and infected gums. Many pharmaceutical gargles, cough drops, mouthwashes, and vapor rubs contain thyme's constituent thymol, which destroys bacteria and some fungus.