Most members of this genus make low, spreading mats with small leaves along the stems, and are strongly aromatic. They are robust enough to stand being walked on, so can be planted where they will spread into a gravel path. The flowers, dense terminal clusters, are usually in shades of pink, but there are also white varieties, and some with yellow or variegated foliage. For good measure, you can eat them.

Thymus 'Doone Valley' forms a scented mat of dark green foliage with gold markings and purple flowers.