Alyssum alyssoides
Alyssum alyssoides · Brassicaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant alyssum alyssoides: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Brassicaceae
- Type
- Annual or biennial herb
- Mature height
- 15 to 30 cm tall
- Flowering
- Spring to summer (April to September)
- Flowers
- Small white, yellow or pink flowers in clusters
- Foliage
- Deciduous, grey-green, hairy
- Hardiness
- Excellent (down to -15 °C)
- Origin
- Mediterranean and temperate regions of Europe
Care
Exposure
Calyx alyssum prefers a sunny location, ideally 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. It tolerates partial shade but flowers less generously. Position it in an open, well-ventilated spot to prevent stagnant moisture.
Watering
Water moderately during growth, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Once established, this plant is very tolerant of drought. Avoid excess water which promotes rot, especially in winter.
Soil and drainage
Plant in well-drained, light and even calcareous soil. This herb adapts to poor or stony soils. Adding sand or gravel improves drainage and suits this dry-loving plant perfectly.
Pruning and pinching
Remove spent flowers regularly to extend flowering (deadheading). Light pinching in spring encourages branching and a more compact form. No severe pruning needed; this plant remains naturally tidy.
Fertilizer
Calyx alyssum requires minimal fertilizer. A light balanced fertilizer in spring is plenty. Excess nitrogen causes excessive growth at the expense of flowering; prefer a lean application or avoid it altogether.
Pests and diseases
This plant is generally robust. Watch for white rust and aphids if conditions are too humid. Good drainage and adequate air circulation prevent fungal problems. Harvest seeds before autumn if you want natural self-seeding.
Did you know?
Calyx alyssum belongs to the same family as cabbage and radish (Brassicaceae), an alliance often surprising to gardeners! Traditionally used in rock gardens and front gardens, this hardy alyssum has colonized the walls and rocky terrain of the Mediterranean basin for centuries, where it grows almost wild. Its name derives from the Greek 'a-lyssos' (which cures madness), though this property is essentially legendary.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- CransonArmoracia rusticana
- Sea kaleCrambe maritima
- Mountain AlyssumAlyssum montanum
- Wall rock cressArabis caucasica
- Rocket SaladEruca sativa
- WasabiEutrema japonicum
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.