The mint plant is weedy, and the culantro is needy, but despite my black thumb, the thyme plant has not died yet. AdvertisementThyme has a beautiful fragrance, not just the small leaves but also the tough, woody stem. Fresh thyme sprigs can also be frozen. Thyme has a beautiful fragrance, not just the small leaves but also the tough, woody stem. Photo: ShutterstockIf I cook these meats on the barbecue, I will toss fresh thyme sprigs (soaked in water for about 30 minutes) onto the fire to perfume the meat.