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Alyssum, commonly known as sweet alyssum and botanically classified as Lobularia maritima, is a low-growing flowering plant valued for its compact growth and dense clusters of small blooms. It develops a spreading to mounding habit and produces flowers in shades of white, pink, purple, and yellow throughout the growing season. This plant adapts well to temperate climates and performs best in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil. Alyssum is commonly used in borders, edging, containers, and ground cover planting, where it establishes easily from seeds and grows steadily under suitable conditions.
Features
- Low-growing plant with compact, spreading habit
- Produces dense clusters of small flowers in mixed colors
- Suitable for borders, edging, and containers
- Adapted to a range of garden conditions
- Establishes quickly from seeds
Specifications
- Scientific name: Lobularia maritima
- Common name (US): Sweet Alyssum
- Seed type / variety: Mixed colors
- Growth habit: Low-growing annual or short-lived perennial
- USDA zones: 5-9 (often grown as annual)
- Planting season: Spring or fall
- Growing season: Spring to fall
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Sowing Season:
- Spring: March to May
- Fall: September to October
- Germination time and conditions: 5-10 days at 15-20°C; surface sow, light required
- Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil requirements: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil
- Watering needs: Moderate, consistent moisture
- Mature plant size: 10-20 cm height, 20-30 cm spread
- Plant spacing: 15-20 cm between plants
