Byron Bay Public School

Respectful, Responsible, Fair

Telephone02 6685 6557

Emailbyronbay-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Native Thyme (Prostanthera Incisa)

Native Thyme (also called Prostanthera or Cut-leaf Mint Bush) is a small, bushy plant that grows in many parts of Australia, especially in dry woodlands and rocky areas. It has soft green leaves and small purple flowers. The leaves smell strongly of mint or thyme when crushed.

Indigenous Australians have used Native Thyme for thousands of years as bush tucker and medicine. The leaves were used to flavour food and were also brewed into tea to help with coughs, colds and sore throats. It was also burned to help keep away bad spirits or insects.

Native Thyme is a hardy plant that grows well in sunny spots. It attracts bees and butterflies, making it great for gardens.

Native Thyme