The plant often referred to as “allysee” is correctly known as Sweet Alyssum, Lobularia maritima. This popular, low-growing annual is celebrated for its dense carpet of tiny, fragrant flowers. Gardeners appreciate Sweet Alyssum for its ease of cultivation and its adaptability across various garden settings. It provides a consistent display of blooms, making it a favored choice for enhancing garden aesthetics.
About Alyssum
Sweet Alyssum is characterized by its low-growing, spreading habit, typically forming mounds that can reach 3 to 9 inches tall while spreading up to 12 inches or more. Its small, four-petaled flowers appear in dense clusters, often obscuring the foliage, and have a sweet, honey-like fragrance. While the original species is white, cultivars now offer pink, purple, and lavender shades. It is frequently used as a groundcover, pathway edger, or “spiller” in containers and hanging baskets due to its cascading growth. Beyond its ornamental appeal, it attracts beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Planting Alyssum
Optimal planting for Sweet Alyssum usually occurs after the last frost in spring. It thrives in full sun, though partial shade can prevent wilting in hotter climates. It prefers well-draining soil with average fertility, tolerating various soil types, including sandy conditions.
For seeds, direct sow outdoors a few weeks before the last frost. Scatter seeds lightly on the soil surface and gently press down, as they need light for germination. For earlier blooms, start seeds indoors 5 to 8 weeks before the last frost date. Space nursery starts 6 to 12 inches apart for proper air circulation and growth.
Caring for Alyssum
Consistent moisture is beneficial, especially during dry periods, with about an inch of water per week generally sufficient. Ensure the soil drains well to prevent root issues. While it tolerates some drought, regular watering promotes vigorous growth and abundant flowering. Aim for at least six hours of direct sun daily for prolific blooming.
For in-ground plants, fertilization is often unnecessary unless soil is poor, as excess fertilizer promotes foliage over flowers. Container plants may benefit from monthly feedings with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. To encourage continuous blooming and a neat appearance, deadhead spent flowers or lightly shear. Shearing by one-third to one-half of the plant’s height can rejuvenate leggy growth during heat, stimulating new blooms when cooler temperatures return.
Common Alyssum Challenges
Sweet Alyssum can sometimes experience a decline in blooms, often linked to insufficient light or inconsistent watering, particularly during hot summer temperatures. Plants may also become leggy, a common issue in high heat or when they are not regularly pruned.
While generally robust, Sweet Alyssum can occasionally be affected by common garden pests like aphids or spider mites. These can often be managed with organic solutions like insecticidal soap. Fungal issues, including root rot or downy mildew, can arise in overly wet soil or high humidity. Ensuring good air circulation through proper spacing and avoiding overwatering helps mitigate these problems.