Clinopodium alpinum (L.) Kuntze

Scientific Naming and Height

Rock thyme, scientifically named Clinopodium alpinum (L.) Kuntze, is an herbaceous plant that grows an average of 40 to 50 centimeters tall.

Flower Reproductive Traits

Its flowers are hermaphroditic, meaning each flower has both male and female reproductive organs.

Raunkiær Life Form Classification

Under the Raunkiær life form categorization system, rock thyme is classified as a chamaephyte, specifically a suffruticose chamaephyte.

Stem Characteristics

This plant has a woody stem covered in fuzz.

Leaf Arrangement

Its leaves grow in symmetrical pairs and attach to the stem via a thin petiole.

Leaf Shape and Size

Leaf shapes range from ovoid to lanceolate, measuring 5 to 15 millimeters in length.

Inflorescence Structure

The flowers are arranged in whorled inflorescences, with clusters holding 3 to 8 individual flowers.

Individual Flower Traits

Individual flowers are 15 to 20 millimeters long and are typically violet in color.

Flowering Period

Rock thyme flowers between May and August, with the flowering timing varying based on altitude.

Fruit Characteristics

Its mature fruit is a schizocarp that splits into four equal portions when fully mature.

Root System

The plant is anchored to the ground by a taproot, along with a network of smaller secondary roots.

Native Distribution

Rock thyme is native to the mountain regions of Southern Europe.

Altitudinal Range in Italy

In Italy, it occurs across most areas at altitudes between 900 and 2600 meters above sea level.

Habitat Preferences

It grows in open fields, rock fissures, and locations with very little fertile soil.