Sweet Alyssum
Lobularia maritima 'Violet Knight'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Groundcover
Height
6 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9
Water
Moderate, drought tolerant
Humidity
Prefers dry to moderate humidity
Lifespan
Perennial in suitable zones
Native To
Mediterranean region
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Lobularia maritima, commonly known as sweet alyssum, is a low-growing, spreading plant prized for its dense clusters of small, fragrant flowers. It is often grown as an annual ground cover or in containers. This cultivar is distinguished by its vibrant violet blooms that contrast beautifully with its silvery foliage, and it exhibits excellent tolerance to drought and poor soils.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Mist cuttings lightly to maintain moisture during propagation.
- Plant in full sun for best flowering, spacing 12 inches apart.
- Water regularly until established, then drought tolerant.
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer monthly during growing season.
- Prune lightly after flowering to encourage bushiness.
Pro Tip
Ensure soil drains well to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water moderately during dry spells 💧
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape 🌿
- Use well-draining soil for best results
- Fertilize monthly in growing season
- Plant in full sun for vibrant blooms
Don't
- Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
- Allow soil to stay soggy
- Plant in deep shade
- Neglect pruning after flowering
- Use heavy, clay soil without amendments
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
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 fall through late spring. 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.
More Lobularia to compare
Snow Princess Sweet Alyssum
Lobularia maritima 'Snow Princess'
Snow Crystals Sweet Alyssum
Lobularia maritima 'Snow Crystals'
Sweet Alyssum
Lobularia maritima
Sweet Alyssum Blushing Princess
Lobularia x hybrida 'Blushing Princess'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow 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.
