Thymus carnosus is a native endemic to southern Portugal. It is a woody, upright perennial to 41 cm (16.1 in) tall, with clusters of fleshy, oval, light green to grey-green leaves, furry on their undersides.

The white, lilac, or pink flowers are borne on 41 cm (16.1 in) spikes and are protected by oval green bracts.

The plant is hardy from USDA Zones 7-11.