Alyssum
Lobularia maritima (formerly Alyssum maritimum)
Sweet Alyssum is a beloved, honey-scented annual producing masses of tiny white, pink, or purple flowers. This low-growing, spreading plant is perfect for edging, containers, and attracting beneficial insects.
Brassicaceae (Mustard family)
Spring to fall (March-November); may pause during extreme summer heat, reblooming in fall
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: mimosa (sensitive plant)s and ajugas also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Sweet Alyssum has been a beloved garden staple for centuries, valued for its honey-sweet fragrance and delicate appearance. In Victorian times, it was cultivated extensively for its sweet scent and used in bouquets and sachets. The flower language attributes it with meanings of "worth beyond beauty" and "sweetness," reflecting both its modest appearance and powerful fragrance. Today, it's recognized as an essential plant for beneficial insects and sustainable gardening practices.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun (6+ hours) preferred; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates (afternoon shade beneficial)
Water
Moderate; drought-tolerant once established, but performs best with regular watering (1 inch per week); allow soil to dry between waterings
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy to loamy, Tolerates poor soil, Neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.0-7.0)
Expert Growing Tips
Sow seeds directly outdoors after last frost or start indoors 5-6 weeks before
Do not cover seeds; they need light to germinate (7-20 days)
Space plants 6-12 inches apart
Deadhead or shear back by half in midsummer to encourage reblooming
Self-sows readily; may return year after year in mild climates
Excellent for attracting beneficial insects like hover flies and parasitic wasps
Plant near vegetables prone to aphids for natural pest control
Newer hybrids are more heat-tolerant and bloom continuously without deadheading
Avoid overwatering and overly rich soil, which reduces flowering
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Border and edging plantings
- Container gardens and window boxes
- Hanging baskets (trailing varieties)
- Rock gardens and between stepping stones
- Groundcover and living mulch
- Companion planting for pest management
- Pollinator and beneficial insect gardens
- Filling gaps in perennial borders
Traditional Uses
- Not commonly used for medicinal purposes
- Flowers are edible and sometimes used as garnish
- Non-toxic to humans, dogs, cats, and horses
- Safe for children and pets
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Alyssum
will alyssum reseed itself
Yes, Sweet Alyssum readily self-sows in most climates — leave plants in the garden over winter and you'll likely see seedlings emerge in spring.
does alyssum come back every year
Alyssum is typically grown as an annual, but it's actually a short-lived perennial in zones 9-11 and often self-seeds to return year after year in temperate climates.
is alyssum toxic to pets
No, Sweet Alyssum is non-toxic to dogs, cats, and horses — it's safe to plant in gardens with pets, and the flowers are even edible for humans.
why did my alyssum stop blooming
Alyssum may stop blooming during extreme summer heat — cut plants back by half, water well, and fertilize lightly to encourage reblooming when temperatures cool.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Mimosa (Sensitive Plant)
Mimosa pudica
Mimosa pudica, known as the Sensitive Plant, is famous for its rapid leaf-folding response to touch. This tropical legume produces delicate pink puffball flowers.
Ajuga
Ajuga reptans (and other spp.)
Ajuga, commonly known as Bugleweed, is a low-growing, mat-forming perennial prized for its colorful foliage and blue flower spikes. An excellent groundcover that spreads quickly in shaded areas.
Ajuga
Ajuga reptans (and other spp.)
Ajuga, commonly known as Bugleweed, is a low-growing, mat-forming perennial prized for its colorful foliage and blue flower spikes. An excellent groundcover that spreads quickly in shaded areas.