Thyme (Thymus capitatus)

Typical thyme meadows. Thyme (Thymus capitatus) is not only the most economically important native species in Kythera, but also an essential element of the island's identity.

The world-renowned thyme honey from Kythera is produced from its nectar. For local beekeeping, thyme is the main flowering plant for honey production, and small amounts of honey are both treasured and difficult to find.

In recent years, however, due to climate change and frequent wildfires, the abundance and productivity of thyme have decreased, thus threatening the once robust thyme meadows and the traditional beekeeping of the island, whose history is lost in the mists of time.

The flowers, along with the leaves of thyme, are also used as a herb, giving a strong, slightly spicy taste to cooking.