Alyssum saxatile 'Golden Spring'
perennial

Basket of Gold

Alyssum saxatile 'Golden Spring'

The Story

Plant Bio

Golden Spring is a compact, perennial plant known for its bright yellow flowers and low-growing habit.

This cultivar is particularly noted for its long blooming period in early spring and its ability to thrive in poor soils.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesAlyssum saxatile 'Golden Spring' provides cheerful yellow blooms that brighten borders and rock gardens, attracting pollinators.
Practical UsesIts low-maintenance nature makes it ideal for groundcover and erosion control in sunny areas.
Ecological BenefitsSupports beneficial insects and bees, promoting garden biodiversity.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

10 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Low; drought tolerant once established

Humidity

Low to moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Central and southeastern Europe

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Early spring – Mid-spring

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In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds lightly into well-draining soil in early spring.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and root in 4 weeks.
  3. Ensure plants receive full sun for optimal growth.
  4. Water consistently but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
  5. Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring and midsummer.
  6. Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring or fall.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining sandy soil and full sun to encourage dense, vibrant growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
  • Prune after flowering to promote bushy growth
  • Fertilize with a balanced organic fertilizer in spring

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Do not plant in heavy clay soil without amendments
  • Refrain from cutting back too late in the season

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged borderSunlit rock gardenGroundcover in flower beds

Companion Plants

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Basket of Gold questions

What zones can Basket of Gold grow in?

Basket of Gold is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Basket of Gold deer resistant?

Yes — Basket of Gold is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Basket of Gold bloom?

Basket of Gold typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Basket of Gold need full sun?

Basket of Gold does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Basket of Gold drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Basket of Gold handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Basket of Gold 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.