Mastic thyme (Thymus mastichina, Sp. Pl. ed. 2: 827 (1763))

Family: Lamiaceae

Author: (L.) L.

Bibliography: Sp. Pl. ed. 2: 827 (1763)

Year: 1763

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Thymus

Vegetable: False

Observations: Iberian Pen.

Description

Mastic thyme, known scientifically as Thymus mastichina, is an aromatic plant native to the Iberian Peninsula. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family, a group known for its numerous species that yield essential oils and culinary herbs. First described in the authoritative work “Species Plantarum,” in its second edition published in 1763, mastic thyme has a long-standing presence in botanical literature and the field of herbal medicine.

This perennial herb thrives in the Mediterranean climate of the Iberian Peninsula, where its resilient nature allows it to flourish in rocky and dry terrains. It has a distinctive appearance with small, oval leaves that are covered in fine hairs, giving them a slightly woolly texture. The plant produces small, white to pale pink flowers that bloom in clusters, offering a visually pleasing addition to its aromatic presence.

Mastic thyme’s essential oils are highly prized for their potent properties and are often extracted for use in aromatherapy and natural remedies. Its strong, enticing scent is a blend of sweet and earthy notes, making it a favored ingredient in both fragrance and culinary applications. This herb is commonly used to enhance the flavor of meats, soups, and stews, and its leaves can be used fresh or dried without losing much of their aromatic potency.

Beyond its uses in flavoring, mastic thyme also holds medicinal value. Traditionally, it has been employed in folk medicine to treat a variety of ailments, such as respiratory conditions, digestive issues, and to promote general well-being. The antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of its essential oils contribute to its effectiveness in these applications.

The unique attributes of Thymus mastichina, both in its chemical composition and its adaptability to its native environment, make it an invaluable member of the diverse and beneficial Lamiaceae family. Its historical and continued use highlights the ongoing importance of this plant in culinary, medicinal, and aromatic domains.

Common Names

Eng: spanish marjoram, mastic thyme
Spa: mejorana, tomillo blanco
En: Mastic thyme, Spanish marjoram
Pt: Bela-luz, Sal-puro, Tomilho-alvadio-do-Algarve
Es: Mejorana, Tomillo blanco

Synonyms

• Origanum mastichina ((L.) Kuntze)
• Satureja mastichina (L.)
• Thymus suavis (Salisb.)

Distribution

• Portugal (native)
• Spain (native)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Apr 17, 2020 by Debora95 (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 11, 2021 by Angel Blasco (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 11, 2021 by Angel Blasco (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 21, 2019 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 20, 2021 by Carlos Flores (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken May 23, 2021 by García Calero Cristina (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 2, 2021 by Fanny’s Adventures (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 11, 2021 by Francois CATELAIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 11, 2021 by Zamora Enrique (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 25, 2021 by Elisa Delgado (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Apr 4, 2022 by Abdulghaffar Alirezaie (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 16, 2021 by agrowlice (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 15, 2006 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)

Taken Jul 15, 2006 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)

Taken Apr 15, 2006 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)

Other

Taken May 26, 2022 by Joan Francesc (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 30, 2022 by Acosta García Isabel (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Nov 29, 2022 by Acosta García Isabel (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 29, 2021 by paz ana (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Apr 4, 2022 by Abdulghaffar Alirezaie (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7307002)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:461405-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Thymus mastichina (L.) L.)

Specifications

Growth