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The Daily Insight

Does thyme grow well in California?

Author

Matthew Barrera

Published May 21, 2026

Does thyme grow well in California?

Oregano and thyme are two good examples of herbs that are not native to Southern California but can be grown as natives here. Folks most commonly think of herb gardens when they think about growing herbs at home.

Can oregano and thyme be used together?

You can combine many dried herbs like basil, oregano and thyme. But know their flavor profiles first. Rosemary, thyme and oregano have a strong, more assertive flavor. Tarragon, basil and mint are more floral.

What herbs grow well in Southern California?

The University of California Cooperative Extension recommends the following herbs for indoor gardens:

  • Aloe vera.
  • Basil.
  • Catnip.
  • Chives.
  • Garlic chives.
  • Lavender.
  • Lemon balm.
  • Marjoram.

Can you grow herbs year round in California?

Our temperate, Mediterranean climate affords a particular pleasure; the ability to grow many herbs year round in our Bay Area gardens. While growth rates in winter may slow, most perennial herbs thrive during our relatively mild winters.

Is rosemary A perennial in California?

Most culinary herbs are perennials. Some, like Greek oregano, need to be cut back every fall. Others, like sage and rosemary, develop woody stems and survive year to year.

Where do I plant thyme?

Quick Guide to Growing Thyme Space thyme plants 12 to 24 inches apart in a very sunny area with fertile, well-drained soil with a pH close to 7.0. Before planting in-ground, improve your existing soil by mixing in several inches of aged compost or other rich organic matter.

Which is better thyme or oregano?

If you want a lighter flavor, use thyme. If you want, a stronger, more pungent flavor, go for oregano.

How often do you water rosemary in Southern California?

Water: It needs regular waterings to get established. After then, infrequent & deep waterings (every 2-4 weeks depending on your climate) are fine. Good to know: be careful not to over water your rosemary because this plant is subject to root rot. Soil: Make sure the soil drains really well.

Will basil grow year-round in California?

No growing season for this area. Growing season is year-round.

Can you grow basil year-round in California?

Is rosemary A Subshrub?

Of the dozens of forms ranging from groundcovers to tall shrubs, all belong to only one species, Rosmarinus officinalis, all edible but with somewhat differing flavors. Rosemary is an evergreen perennial classified as a subshrub for the woody lower stems that develop over time.

What kind of herbs are grown in California?

California Native Herbs used for their Medicinal, savory or aromatic qualities in Gardens. An herb is any plant that may be used for pleasure, fragrance, or physic (medicine).

What kind of flowers do oregano plants have?

Oregano is a perennial herb with rose-purple or white flowers and a taste reminiscent of thyme. Here’s how to grow oregano plants in your garden—plus, delicious recipes using oregano. Oregano’s taste is zesty and strong and is commonly used in Italian dishes. It is a hardy plant and makes for a good ground cover.

When is the best time to plant oregano?

Planting. Plant the seeds/cuttings in well-drained soil anytime after the last spring frost. The soil should be around 70ºF. For thin plants, plant 8 to 10 inches apart. The plants will grow 1 to 2 feet tall and spread about 18 inches. Oregano makes a good companion plant for any vegetable in the garden.

What happens to oregano plants in the winter?

Also, some plants go dormant in winter, although gardeners usually can get oregano to produce throughout the colder months on a windowsill. Check for insects that may have come in on your plant, and monitor for disease. If you think the plant is not getting enough light, add grow lights (available from garden centers).

Are there any herbs that are native to California?

Some are native to California, most need little, if any, care, and just about all of them would be right at home on a rocky Mediterranean hillside. And yes, you can cook with them if you are so inclined or just enjoy their fragrant beauty. “Rosemary, lavender, sage, thyme, oregano, lemon verbena.”

Planting. Plant the seeds/cuttings in well-drained soil anytime after the last spring frost. The soil should be around 70ºF. For thin plants, plant 8 to 10 inches apart. The plants will grow 1 to 2 feet tall and spread about 18 inches. Oregano makes a good companion plant for any vegetable in the garden.

Oregano is a perennial herb with rose-purple or white flowers and a taste reminiscent of thyme. Here’s how to grow oregano plants in your garden—plus, delicious recipes using oregano. Oregano’s taste is zesty and strong and is commonly used in Italian dishes. It is a hardy plant and makes for a good ground cover.

Also, some plants go dormant in winter, although gardeners usually can get oregano to produce throughout the colder months on a windowsill. Check for insects that may have come in on your plant, and monitor for disease. If you think the plant is not getting enough light, add grow lights (available from garden centers).