annual

Sweet Alyssum

Lobularia maritima

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Annual

Height

6 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Tender perennial, often grown as an annual

Native To

Mediterranean region

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Lobularia maritima, commonly known as sweet alyssum, is a low-growing plant that forms a mat of small flowers in clusters. This cultivar is known for its fragrant flowers and ability to self-seed, providing a naturalistic look in gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Lobularia maritima offers fragrant white or pink flowers that brighten garden borders and rock gardens, attracting pollinators.

Its low-maintenance nature makes it ideal for groundcover and erosion control.

Provides nectar for bees and butterflies, supporting local pollinator populations.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds lightly into well-draining soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
Water consistently but avoid waterlogging for healthy growth.
Fertilize monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Prune back after flowering to encourage bushy growth and more blooms.
Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Sow seeds indoors 6 weeks before the last frost for earlier blooms outdoors.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy 🌱
Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming
Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season
Ensure good air circulation to prevent diseases
Mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature

Don't

Avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot ❌
Don’t fertilize with high-nitrogen fertilizers that promote excessive foliage
Do not place in full shade; it prefers full sun
Avoid heavy, poorly-drained soils that cause waterlogging
Refrain from pruning in late fall or winter

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Fragrant border with silver-gray foliageGroundcover in rock gardensWildflower meadow accent

Companion Plants

Salvia Lavender Thyme Sedum Echinacea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Sweet Alyssum questions

What zones can Sweet Alyssum grow in?

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 Sweet Alyssum deer resistant?

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

When does Sweet Alyssum bloom?

Sweet Alyssum typically blooms in spring to frost through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Sweet Alyssum need full sun?

Sweet Alyssum does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Sweet Alyssum drought tolerant?

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