Description
100 Seeds Per Pack
Alyssum – Carpet of Snow (A.K.A. Sweet Alyssum, Sweet Alison)
Days to Maturity: 35–42 Days
Botanical Name: (Lobularia maritima)
Sun Requirements: Full Sun to Partial Shade
In Victorian floriography, alyssum symbolized sentiments such as “worth beyond beauty” and “sweetness of soul,” well-suited to the discreet expression of affection or the genteel conveyance of esteem. Carpet of Snow is valued for its low, spreading habit and discreet charm, quietly filling gaps and softening the edges of walkways. Although typically grown as a hardy annual, it reseeds itself readily with little care, and in zones 9–11, it may return as a short-lived perennial. Easy to grow from seed, it may be sown directly in the garden or started indoors and transplanted with little effort.
Compact at just 4–6 inches tall, this variety forms neat, mat-like mounds densely covered in ¼-inch white blooms arranged in 1–2 inch clusters. Together, the dense, low-growing plants create a soft, tidy edging along borders, beds, and walkways. It is well-suited to rock gardens, containers, and hanging baskets, and can be planted in masses to suppress weeds and fill in bare spots in the garden.
Alyssum – Carpet of Snow also draws beneficial insects such as parasitic wasps and hoverflies, which assist in managing aphid populations and contribute to a well-balanced garden environment. Its sweet, honey-like fragrance—most noticeable in the warmth of the day—adds subtle charm to borders and beds, further enhancing its role as an ornamental favorite in the flower garden and floral arrangements.
Best grown in full sun but tolerant of part shade, Carpet of Snow thrives in a wide range of soils, including sandy and rocky types. Minimal fertilization is required, and plants benefit from occasional pruning to maintain form and encourage continued blooming. Deadheading spent flowers helps extend the bloom period. The flowers and young leaves are edible, offering a mild flavor with a faint peppery or anise note. Rich in vitamins A, C, and E, along with folate, potassium, phosphorus, and iron, alyssum makes a unique and flavorful addition to salads or as a garnish.
An old-fashioned favorite, Alyssum – Carpet of Snow brings a measure of beauty and elegance to any bed, border, or garden!
Planting Instructions for Carpet of Snow Alyssum Seeds
Alyssum seeds need light to germinate so do not cover the seeds when planting. They are very susceptible to damping off so water with warm water only. For sowing alyssum outdoors in beds, sow seeds after the soil has begun to warm in the spring then thin to 4″ apart. Alyssum is an annual and germination occurs in 7-8 days at 70°F. Alyssum are somewhat resistant to disease and insects. If disease or insect problems occur, treat alyssum early with organic insect repellants and fungicide.
FAQ
What is the historical or notable background of Alyssum – Carpet of Snow?
Alyssum – Carpet of Snow holds a place in Victorian floriography, where it symbolized “worth beyond beauty” and “sweetness of soul.” This old-fashioned favorite continues to charm gardeners with its delicate appearance and ease of cultivation, often used to subtly express affection or esteem through floral arrangements.
How would you describe the fragrance and appeal of Alyssum – Carpet of Snow?
Alyssum – Carpet of Snow emits a light, honey-like fragrance that becomes more noticeable in warm weather. This sweet scent, paired with its soft white blooms, makes it a beloved choice for borders, walkways, and containers.
What does Alyssum – Carpet of Snow look like and how does it grow?
This compact variety grows just 4–6 inches tall and forms low, mat-like mounds densely packed with tiny white flowers. The blooms cluster in 1–2 inch heads, creating a carpet-like effect that shines along garden edges and in rock gardens.
When should I plant Alyssum – Carpet of Snow, and how long until it matures?
Sow Alyssum – Carpet of Snow seeds directly in the garden once the soil has warmed in spring, or start them indoors for use at any time of year. With germination in just 7–8 days at 70°F and maturity in 35–42 days, it’s a fast and rewarding option for garden beds, containers, or indoor enjoyment year-round.
Where does Alyssum – Carpet of Snow grow best?
It thrives in full sun but tolerates partial shade and performs well in a range of soils, including sandy and rocky types. It’s also drought-tolerant once established and well-suited for zones 9–11, where it may act as a short-lived perennial.
What are the edible and nutritional qualities of Alyssum – Carpet of Snow?
Both the flowers and young leaves are edible, with a mild, slightly peppery or anise flavor. They’re rich in vitamins A, C, and E, along with folate, potassium, phosphorus, and iron—making a unique addition to salads or garnishes.
Can Alyssum – Carpet of Snow benefit the garden ecosystem?
Absolutely. It attracts beneficial insects like parasitic wasps and hoverflies, which help control aphid populations and foster a balanced garden ecosystem—making a useful addition to the garden.
How should I care for Alyssum – Carpet of Snow during the season?
Minimal care is needed: occasional pruning and deadheading will encourage reblooming and keep plants tidy. Use warm water when watering, especially during early growth, to prevent damping off.
What are some effective landscape uses for Alyssum – Carpet of Snow?
Its low-growing, spreading habit makes it ideal for filling gaps, softening path edges, mass plantings, rock gardens, and even hanging baskets. It also works well as a living mulch to suppress weeds and cover bare spots.
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