Sweet Alyssum
lobularia maritima
Also known as: ["Allysum","Sweet Alison","Lobularia"]
Overview
A low-growing, fragrant annual or short-lived perennial with tiny, white, sweet-scented flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Lobularia |
| Botanical Name: | Lobularia maritima |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a sunny location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed during the growing season; deadhead regularly to promote continuous flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating an overgrown plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; provide shade during peak heat.
Watering
every 3–5 days during active growth, less frequently in cooler periods
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep roots; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot; adjust based on weather and soil conditions.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid overwatering in heavy soils; amend with organic matter for nutrients.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, 60–70°F (15–21°C); tolerates light frost but thrives in cooler conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from cold drafts; maintain consistent cool conditions for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; use a liquid fertilizer for easy absorption; stop feeding in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings root easily in warm conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or perlite and peat moss mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–3 weeks; plants establish in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; snip off faded flowers just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; deadhead regularly; shape lightly as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for maintaining vigor and preventing overcrowding.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early morning; ensure drainage; adjust for weather.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent standing water.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf damage or dieback; prolonged cold may lead to plant death.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; move potted plants indoors during freezes; use row covers for garden plants.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, flower drop, and reduced vigor; may go dormant in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; water before fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLobularia maritima is non-toxic to cats. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion by felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSweet alyssum is not considered toxic to dogs. Ingestion of the plant is unlikely to cause any adverse health effects in canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicLobularia maritima, commonly known as sweet alyssum, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects or physiological impacts reported from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Sweet Alyssum?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7-10 days, depending on climate.
Q: Does Sweet Alyssum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators due to its fragrant flowers.
Q: Can Sweet Alyssum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors in a well-lit area with good air circulation, though it thrives best outdoors.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 3–5 days during active |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
