ALYSSUM Seeds, Carpet of Snow

Alyssum 'Carpet of Snow' (Lobularia maritima) is an heirloom, open-pollinated annual ground cover that blankets beds and borders with masses of tiny, honey-scented white flowers. Low and spreading, it forms a dense living carpet of bloom from spring through the first frost.

At a glance

• Botanical name: Lobularia maritima 'Carpet of Snow'
• Type: Heirloom, open-pollinated annual
• Mature height: 4 to 6 inches
• Bloom: Pure white, fragrant, spring through frost
• Sun: Full sun to partial shade (6+ hours)
• Spacing: 6 to 12 inches
• Soil: Well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline

Best for

• Edging beds, walkways, and borders
• Rock gardens and between stepping stones
• Spilling over container and window-box edges
• Pollinator and bee-friendly plantings
• Low-maintenance ground cover

How to grow

Sow seeds after the last frost on well-drained soil and press in lightly, since they need light to germinate. Keep evenly moist until seedlings appear, then water when the top inch of soil dries. Plant in full sun to partial shade for the heaviest bloom. Shear the plants back lightly after the first flush to encourage fresh, continuous flowering through the season.

About 99Heirlooms

99Heirlooms is a seed company devoted to heirloom and open-pollinated varieties, giving home gardeners dependable seeds with the character and heritage of generations past.

Sold by 99Heirlooms.com, based in Saint Paul, Minnesota.