Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme is a rich, earthy organic green with a hint of blue that keeps it cool.
It’s not bright grassy green but more of a herbal and calming like the color of a dried culinary thyme hence the name.
It has a natural, grounded appearance which is perfect for a cozy environment and moody spaces.
If you want something connected to nature this can be your color.
Unlike other greens it doesn’t have dusty or muted gray cast; its soft blue tone helps to maintain a balance.
Blue might not be a visible undertone like other tones are partially visible. But it does the work it should be doing.
I personally prefer Dried Thyme for earthy touch.
To pair it up I really like brown and brass for darker theme style but completely opposite color like White for lively and brighter themes.
Further we will discuss Dried Thyme SW 6186 undertones, LRV and other colours you might or might not prefer and what coordinating colors and elements we can go for without a second thought.
Also, which places you might prefer Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme to be.
Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme: Overview & Key Details
Understanding the colour and its appearance will help you lock in without feeling trapped.
Dried Thyme has 21 light reflective values meaning the colour is neutral.
It will not make your home darker or brighter but different finishes make a different appearance.
So, it’s not only about the correct shade but also about possibly hindering the way you would like to maintain the look.
| Attribute | Details |
| Color Name | Dried Thyme |
| Color Code | SW 6186 |
| Color Family | Green |
| LRV (Light Reflectance Value) | 21 |
| RGB | 123 / 128 / 112 |
| HEX Code | #7B8070 |
| Undertone | Blue |
| Warm/Cool | Leans cool (slight blue and gray), but with organic earthy warmth |
| Best Trim Pairings | Pure whites (e.g., SW High Reflective White SW 7757) or soft off-whites (e.g., SW Alabaster SW 7008) |
| Atmosphere | Relaxed, grounded, works well in calm and serene spaces |
| Popular Comparisons | Rosemary (SW 6187): darker and more muted; Evergreen Fog (SW 9130): lighter and more gray |
What is the LRV of Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme?
The LRV of Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme is 21. What does this value actually mean?
LRV is the value which states how much light the colour reflects which makes the room darker or brighter or keeps it neutral.
This should be noted LRV is not solely responsible for the appearance of your room.
It’s one of the most important factors to mark on your expectations.
Other factors like complimentary colours, elements, decor, lighting condition etc affect equally.
You may face disagreement because while experimenting with different things but that’s the only thing that will give you satisfying results.
So, it’s better to stay knowledgeable and to keep things entertaining.
What Undertones does Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme 6186 have?
Dried Thyme SW 6186, when you take first look, it’ll appear as soft earthy green but it actually has blue undertones in it (surprising, right?).
This helps in keeping the color appear cool and keeps it from turning yellowish.
It might appear with a little muted gray tone in striking morning natural light.
At night, with soft artificial lights the colour will appear more smooth and velvety.
Dried Thyme is more of sophisticated soft green that doesn’t appear saturated and bold.
The layered undertones refine Dried Thyme Sherwin Williams and make it a timeless ideal green for both classic and contemporary settings.
Dried Thyme vs Rosemary: Comparing Two Popular Sherwin Williams Green Paint Colors
Dried Thyme appears softer and muted; has a subtle cool undertone which is not noticeable but might appear under certain lighting conditions.
It leans towards sage olive tone but more in earthy shade without being overly gray.
It is versatile in nature, can be applied on walls, cabinets, built-ins and good for calm, organic, grounded presence where you want color but not drama.
Especially great in north facing cool light rooms.
Conversely Rosemary SW 6187 appears deeper and richer than Dried Thyme.
For the grounded green appeal it has gray undertones but that also helps to darken the green as compared to Dried Thyme.
Rosemary has 14 LRV which means it’s darker and absorbs the light more.
Unlike Dried Thyme Rosemary, effective for cabinets, accent walls, or built-ins where you want statements.
Its warmth and depth gives an exemplary feel.
It pairs well with wood tones, natural textures, creamy whites, brass or aged metal finishes and warm neutrals.
So, if you’re not sure what to choose between Dried Thyme and Rosemary, just have this in mind:
Go for Dried Thyme Sherwin Williams if you wish to have a lighter flexible green.
If you want a calming organic feel and something that works on walls without making the space feel too dark.
Opt Rosemary SW 6187 if you want a deep, richer, saturated green grounded color for accent features.
It’s a color that makes a statement but stays understated.
| Feature | Dried Thyme (SW 6186) | Rosemary (SW 6187) |
| Color Family | Green | Green |
| LRV | 21 | 14 |
| Undertone | Blue | Gray |
| Warmth / Temperature | Cool- balanced | Cool |
| Mood / Use | Calming, organic, great on walls, built-ins, cabinets — works well in cozy or soft-modern spaces | Grounding and elegant; makes a statement without being overly bold — ideal for accent walls, cabinets, or richer features |
| Lighting Effects | In bright light, the green is more pronounced; in low light, the gray/olive shows up more | In strong daylight, the green is more vibrant; in dimmer light or north-facing rooms, the gray deepens it |
| Coordinating Colors | Creamy whites, taupes, natural woods, soft neutrals | Works with whites (e.g., Alabaster), warm metallics (brass, bronze), stone, and natural materials |
Why I Recommend (or Don’t Recommend) Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme
Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme is a paint color I recommend for those seeking sophisticated, earthy neutral greens with a muted vibe.
This color hits a nice balance between cool and warm tones which gives depth and versatility without getting too bold and overpowering.
Here we will discuss, what decor can go with this color, what you can expect, how much maintenance required and will it be easily available in the market or how much does it cost.
Appearance and Decor
I appreciate Dried Thyme at home with the access to rich natural light, pairing it with soft white curtains changes the vibe and makes the light gentle and soft.
Dried Thyme appears pretty with lighter shades and it’s 21 LRV keeps everything neutral and certain.
Dried Thyme SW 6186 is a mid tone organic green with a pre-dominant muted gray tone leaning slightly cool.
In my living room, it doesn’t turn warm or cool since I have pretty good natural light conditions.
I used warm woods, leather furniture and layered lighting to enhance the glow I get from semi-gloss finish and make it more lively and captivating.
Using antique decor, with plants, flowers and wooden frames looks really serene, makes it perfect for my reading habit too.
Maintenance and Durability as per Sheen
Sherwin Williams offers 5 different sheens that require different levels of maintenance and can be applied only to certain areas.
If you don’t want to scratch your head then don’t try to avoid recommendations.
Let’s begin with Flat/Matte finish, this has smooth texture and non-reflective quality.
It’s ideal for ceiling or low traffic areas since you will not be able to clean it with water.
The only option will be to re-apply.
You might not want to go through that so only use this finish if you like to paint new colours every now and then or you want to paint your ceiling.
Eggshell finish is subtly reflective and good for moderate traffic walls, its moisture resistant and keeps your aesthetic in place whereas, Satin is a soft sheen with better durability and easy to clean. Works well with trims and doors.
Semi-Gloss has medium shine, strongly durable, highly moisture resistant and cleanable.
And the last is Gloss/Highly Gloss sheen which is very shiny, highly durable, and washable but overuse on the wall can highlight its imperfections easily.
Cost and Availability
You should visit Sherwin Williams store directly to unlock all the required finishes and close colours because in local stores sometimes the colour is not available or the particular finish which creates chaos.
For testing, per sample stick of 2” x 3” color chip will be free but 8” x 8” peel and stick will cost you $ 3.95 approx.
Summing it up, now we will discuss other important factors you should be aware of which will help you build a picture in your head to at least bring familiarity.
How Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme 6186 Stacks Up Against Other Green Paint Colors
Sherwin Williams offers similar paints to Dried Thyme along with the differences in LRV and undertones which sometimes create doubt, harder to stick to one color and might fear if you will love it or hate it for long.
So this doesn’t happen to you.
We will understand each colour and how it’s different from Dried Thyme SW to ease the commitment without confusion.
Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme vs Rosemary SW 6187
Rosemary has gray undertone by which it shows differently in different lightings and its LRV is 14 speaks for being darker and absorbing light more than Dried Thyme.
It’s a darker shade and perfect for accent walls, cabinets, etc where statement is required.
Although, Dried Thyme is a bit lighter shade than Rosemary SW 6187 and perfect for walls to create a soft modern cozy effect and it’s a cooler shade without making the blue undertone obvious.
Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme vs Retreat SW 6207
Retreat has blue and gray undertones which helps it keep cool but deeper tones.
Both of the LRVs are 21 which might create a confusion in the level of darkness they both carry.
But the main difference they have — Dried Thyme feels herbal-organic emerges as muted subtle green and Retreat gives a relaxed-subdued vibe with prominently visible gray.
You need to make a call between gray-green effect (Retreat SW 6207) or Earthy neutral green (Dried Thyme SW 6186).
Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme vs Clary sage SW 6178
Clary Sage is brighter and has a yellow undertone to keep the warm and cozy effect; unless you want cool green which doesn’t appear yellow and slightly darker, you can proceed with Dried Thyme.
Clary Sage is reflective and softer like pastel. Its appearance varies upon the lighting condition but it is fresh, soothing and adaptable to various styles and themes.
The option you have is in between herbal green (Dried Thyme) and soft pastel green Appeal (Clary Sage).
Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme vs Basil SW 6194
Basil has blue and gray undertones like Retreat with 15 LRV which create a difference.
In this section we will also include how Retreat SW and Basil SW are different from one another since having a common aspect.
The major difference between Retreat and Basil is about the darkness and brightness.
When retreat absorbs less light and appears to be muted than basil whereas, Basil appears to be deeper green with misty aura.
In spite of having a gray undertone, basil still does not appear gray as much as Dried Thyme does.
It looks more lively and serene. Its bold and nature inspired green unlike Dried Thyme looks olive and subtle gray influence which keeps it balanced from turning into blue or yellow.
Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme vs Evergreen Fog SW 9130
Evergreen Fog has a hint of blue and dominantly gray in Green. It’s as versatile as Dried Thyme but brighter.
It looks calming, fresh and modern. Dried Thyme is traditional or modern transitional and cool richer colour.
It might appear warm in south facing rooms and a little hint of blue in north facing rooms.
While, Evergreen Fog can appear earthy and more greener in warm lights.
| Color Name | SW Code | Undertones (Sherwin Williams) | LRV | Temperature & Mood | Other Key Differences |
| Dried Thyme | 6186 | Blue | 21 | Cooler olive green, sophisticated, calming | Medium-dark, versatile for accents and cabinetry; subtle blue undertone adds coolness |
| Evergreen Fog | 9130 | Muted green-gray with dominant gray undertones | 30 | Cool gray-green, fresh and neutral | Lighter than Dried Thyme; popular neutral green alternative; Calder Award 2022 |
| Basil | 6194 | Blue-gray nuances; richer, deeper, more vibrant green | 15 | Warm, bold, true green | Darker and more saturated than Dried Thyme; bolder green presence |
| Clary Sage | 6178 | Slight yellow undertones | 41 | Light, soft, fresh sage | Lighter and airier than Dried Thyme; more complex undertones with soft pastels |
| Retreat | 6207 | Blue and gray undertones | 21 | Cool sage like Dried Thyme but with more blue | Similar depth to Dried Thyme; more pronounced blue undertones; peaceful and cocooning |
| Rosemary | 6189 | Cool gray undertone | 18 | Earthy, grounded green | Slightly darker and greener than Dried Thyme; harmonious for pairing but more intense |
Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme: Complementary & Coordinating Colors
Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme colour palette has a range of complementary and coordinating colours that highlights its undertones and sophisticated depth.
Here we will be discussing colours according to the contrast and harmony.
Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme Complementary Colors:
For creating a balanced contrast these colors brings out the best of Dried Thyme:
- Soft creamy white: Its soft and creamy white brightens and softens the deep green.
- Warm Terracotta or Rust: To enrich the olive tones and build a contrast.
- Deep burgundy or wine: Adds a rich, deep and mood touch.
Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme Coordinating Colors:
To have nature inspired, harmonious look blending well with Dried Thyme:
- Neutral Taupes & Grays: Soft neutral to balance out and grounding the space.
- Warm Woods: Complements the earthy tone of Dried Thyme with organic texture.
- Soft Sage or Muted Greens: For subtle gradation, similar greens in lighter or cooler tones.
- Brass or Matte Gold Accents: Metallic warmth that highlights subtle golden undertones.
You can also go for different white according to your wants.
If you want subtleness, Alabaster can be a good option, for striking white to have a bright space opt for Pure White.
We have a lot of options and here I only discussed my trusted colours for each requirement.
Be open to explore different ideas and colours until you find the one that matches the picture or aesthetic you have in mind.
Keep searching and try new things to let your home match your personality.
Dried Thyme SW 6186 in Different Spaces
I suggested my clients use Dried Thyme on different spaces and according to their vibe, it was perfect and serene by using perfect lighting. It’s versatile.
Muted olive-greenish works perfectly on different spaces.
I used it in my living room and it has a cozy grounded vibe where style and comfort blends.
I paired it with warm woods, leather furniture, and layered lighting which bestows a calming nature inspired theme just like I wanted.
Let’s discuss how my clients used it and how it turned out.
Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme Front Door
Dried Thyme is a great choice for the front door. It works beautifully with golden and brass hardwares which highlights the green warmth.
Using a striking colour like creamy, beige or soft gray on light or neutral exterior siding will be cherry on top.
Dried Thyme 6186 sophistication and subtle complexity creates a timeless appeal.
Its medium dark depth tone ages out gracefully without being too bold and overpowering.
Just ensure the door receives some natural light to keep color lively and warm.
Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme Bedroom
If you prefer calmness and a connection to nature like the theme in your room.
Dried Thyme might be your ultimate option. It suits both ways — accent walls or full room painting.
Pairing it up with soft neutrals, pastel colours or metal elements with warm lights or not too striking lights sets the tone blissfully.
If you have south facing rooms, you might have access to ample natural light which works really well for Dried Thyme to enhance its olive beautiful color.
If the north-facing room is your case, then the color will appear cool and slight gray which looks calm and soothing but potentially darker and moodier.
Layered and dimmable artificial lights highlight its depth and versatility.
Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme Cabinets
Dried Thyme works wonderfully on kitchen cabinets especially with marble countertops and natural stone backsplashes.
Balanced lighting with cream or warm white walls is key to avoid the green appearing too dark.
My client had a window in her kitchen which saved them from darkening but I had other cases where not everybody has natural light access in their kitchens.
So, only go for Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme Kitchen Cabinets when either you like a bit of a dark effect or has good layered light set up.
Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme Bathroom
With good ventilation and lighting, Dried Thyme was worked nicely pairing up with white or light tiles or matte gold fixtures for a spa-like serene vibe.
Dried Thyme works where rich and enveloping color is required.
Finish is also a very Important part of it, Eggshell, Satin and Semi-Gloss finish works best for the bathroom.
They absorb moisture well, are durable and easy to clean.
Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme Exterior
Dried Thyme stands out beautifully on exterior trims or even entire facades when balanced thoughtfully with lighter siding, stonework, wood or different elements.
It gives a nature-inspired, inviting look while maintaining a classic, timeless appeal.
Again, go for Satin or Semi-Gloss Sheens to save yourself from high effort maintenance, its more durable. And Sherwin Williams offers exterior acrylic latex paints especially formulated for weather resistant.
Conclusion
Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme gives nature inspired theme vibe in both dark or light illustration.
If you cull wood, light colours, metal elements and like to feel greenery around then, it’s your colour.
Dried Thyme SW 6186 is an all rounder color but I will suggest you to test it first before committing for a longer period because colours behave differently in different spaces.
Try different sample shades where you want to paint it.
Observe how it looks throughout the day in view of the fact that learning about the colour and experiencing it are two different things.
I have been teaching, learning and growing with each and every client.
Their unique requests always come as a shock to me, that how much we already know is still there’s something out there we might learn when the time comes.
Enjoy your paint exploring journey to bring the best out of your home.
Remember it’s not a project to finish in a fixed timeline, it’s your home so it might take a while to settle in.
FAQs
Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme is a cool color, it can appear a bit warm if you use warm lights in night or dimmer spaces. Its blue undertone helps it to keep the colour cool but not exactly a noticeable blue. In natural light, the color will be cooler and more vibrant.
Sherwin Williams dried thyme is a herbal muted green color, which has a bit of gray tone in appearance and it’s perfect for nature inspired themes and depending upon the finishes, it’s less reflective in comparison to other greens because of 21 LRV.
Subtle greys, whites, pastels, beige, cream, warm woods like Oak and Walnut, Brass or matte gold hardware, warm terracotta and soft neutral tones can easily paired with Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme.
Rosemary SW 6187 has 18 LRV, it’s less reflective than Dried Thyme which makes it one shade darker. But with smart color coordination, it can be a harmonious color choice for pairing. You can try pairing it with lighter elements, to lessen its bold effect.
