A low carpet of tiny honey-scented flowers that hum with bees and hoverflies, perfect for edging and baskets. Tough, quick and self-seeding in mild climates.
At a glance
- Plant type: Annual
- Mature size: 10 cm H × 30 cm W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Sweet Alyssum
Lobularia maritima is an fast-growing annual in the Brassicaceae family. It reaches around 10 cm tall and 30 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. White, purple and pink flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow Sweet Alyssum
Sweet Alyssum suits warm-temperate, Mediterranean and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also tolerates salt-laden coastal winds and is a genuinely water-wise choice.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Sweet Alyssum provided drainage is reasonable. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Sweet Alyssum is happy on low water, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Sweet Alyssum after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Sweet Alyssum in the garden
Sweet Alyssum earns its place for feeding bees and pollinators, its fragrance, pots and courtyard containers, hanging baskets and holding soil on banks and slopes. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Sweet Alyssum with other plants that enjoy the same happy on low water and warm-temperate climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Sweet Alyssum
Plant Sale lists Sweet Alyssum as seed. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Sweet Alyssum seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.