Species
Lobularia maritimaSweet Alyssum1 other cultivar
The Story
Plant Bio
Lobularia maritima, or Sweet Alyssum, is a low-growing, spreading plant, typically grown as an annual, known for its masses of tiny, fragrant flowers.
'Snow Crystals' is a tetraploid variety, which gives it larger flowers and more heat tolerance than the species.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Annual
Height
6 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Annual (or tender perennial)
Native To
Mediterranean region
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Bloom period
Early summer – Late summer
In flower about 3 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings lightly to maintain moisture during root development.
- Water regularly but avoid over-saturation to prevent root rot.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid feed during active growth.
- Pinch back to encourage bushy growth and remove dead flowers.
- Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Sow seeds in early spring for vibrant blooms throughout summer.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently to keep soil moist but not soggy 🌱
- Prune dead or faded flowers to promote new growth
- Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during growing season
- Mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not fertilize in late fall to prevent weak new growth
- Refrain from planting in overly shaded areas
- Never let soil dry out completely during hot weather
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Snow Crystals Sweet Alyssum questions
What zones can Snow Crystals Sweet Alyssum grow in?
Snow Crystals Sweet Alyssum is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Snow Crystals Sweet Alyssum deer resistant?
Yes — Snow Crystals Sweet Alyssum is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Snow Crystals Sweet Alyssum bloom?
Snow Crystals Sweet Alyssum typically blooms in early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Snow Crystals Sweet Alyssum need full sun?
Snow Crystals Sweet Alyssum does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Lobularia to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Snow Crystals Sweet Alyssum with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.