Alyssum

Alyssum Care

Lobularia maritima

What is the plant

Also known as the Carpet Flower, this flower gives off a lovely smell that makes it easy to identify. It ranges from beautiful shades of white to purple and is quite common in gardens.

Spreading quickly, the Sweet Alyssum is a fast-growing flower that forms a “carpet”, hence their local name. Discovered in Europe, this plant has traveled the world and made its home in many gardens for its beauty and pretty scent! If grown in a mild climate, this plant can bloom year-round. Be careful, though, as this plant is noted for its aggressive growing nature and can overwhelm a garden if not cared for properly.

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Humidity

High

Lighting

Full Sun

Temperature

15°C - 20°C

Hardiness zone

9a - 11b

Difficulty

Medium

How to Care for the Plant

Water
An inch (0.025 m) of water will be required weekly, and if grown in an area where it is dry, make sure to water it more often.
Pruning
The easiest way to control the aggressive spreading of this plant is by deadheading, but they can also be pruned to keep them tidy.
Fertilizer
The Carpet Flower only requires fertilizer when the soil is poor or when grown in a container. You’ll need to add a well-balanced monthly fertilizer if grown in a container.

Disease diagnosis

Check your plant’s health

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Sunlight
This plant thrives with sunshine and needs six to eight hours of full sunlight a day! However, if being grown in a dry and hot climate, it will require partial shade.
Soil
As long as the soil is not boggy or saturated with water, the hardy, Sweet Alyssum can grow in any soil! Just keep the soil moist and well-drained for a happy plant.
Propagation
The Carpet Flower produces seeds readily on its own that spread quickly. If you wish to start them or grow them in a pot, plant the seeds in the soil and provide water.

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Temperature
A temperate climate will promote year-long blooming for this plant. They will stop flowering in high heat, though but bloom once the weather cools down.
Container
Make sure your chosen container has drainage holes. This plant is perfect for hanging baskets!
Fun fact
The botanical name of this plant is a rough translation of the Greek “not” and “rage”, where it was once used to treat rabies!