This unusual thyme like plant goes by a number of names, including Persian hyssop, Israeli thyme, Andalusian thyme, hop headed thyme and Spanish oregano. With this many common names, it is obvious that it is an important herb throughout the Mediterranean. It looks much like very happy thyme, with a flavor that has a significant bite like a savory. It used to be called Thymbra capitata and Satureja capitata, but is now in the genera Cordiothymus. It has had a significant history throughout the Middle East, and is another of the group of plant that is used as a component of the herb blend 'Za'atar'. It prefers very dry soil, and is terrific planted in a rocky bed alongside Thymbra spicata, Origanum onites and Capparis spinosa. The intense purple flowers have a delicious bite to them, and they are a significant honey bee plant throughout the Middle East.