Alyssum’s long been a favorite border plant, with its low-sprawling habit, sweet fragrance, and profuse blooms. Dwarf Pink is just as lovely but in a more compact package. Growing only two to four inches high and typically spreading in mats eight to 10 inches wide, this heirloom variety is perfect for foreground planting and edging and is a favorite for rock gardens. It also grows well in containers; let them cascade over the edges for a dramatic effect. As a bonus, the dense plant helps regulate soil temperature and moisture levels, both in pots and in dryer parts of the garden. They also help suppress weeds.
Dwarf Pink alyssum flowers have four delicate petals, and quarter-inch blooms are so profuse they often hide the stems and narrow, oblong leaves. This variety often has varying shades in each flower cluster, from almost white to bordering on lavender.
Typically used as an annual in USDA Hardiness Zones 2-11, Dwarf Pink can survive mild winters as a perennial. As its scientific name implies, it prefers cooler, maritime climates. In warmer locations it blooms in spring, often goes dormant in the heat of summer, and resumes flowering in early fall when things begin to cool off. Yet despite its heat intolerance, it’s a hardy, pest- and disease-resistant plant that’s easy to grow from seed. This variety also tolerates dry soil and requires little to no maintenance other than the occasional trimming back if it’s hogging too much space. Choose a spot in full sun or partial shade for best blooms, plant your Dwarf Pink alyssum seeds where the soil will remain moist until they’re established, and you’re all set!
Quick Facts
- Type: Flower
- Color: Pink
- Height: 2″ to 4″ Tall
- Season: Tender Perennial
- Zones: 3 to 10
- Environment: Full Sun
- Uses: Beds, Borders, Groundcover
Sowing The Seed
Alyssum flowers are best established directly outdoors, when the weather is warm and all danger of frost has passed. Begin by clearing your sowing area of all unwanted plant life. Turn the dirt, or replace it with fresh soil. Scatter your Alyssum seeds (in groups of 4) to the surface of the soil, lightly covering the seed with 1/16” of topsoil.
Alyssum seeds can also be started indoors, in peat pots, 6 to 8 weeks prior to the last frost. Sow 3 to 4 seeds per pot, at a shallow depth of 1/16” under topsoil. Transplant when all danger of frost has passed, later in the season.
Growing Conditions
Alyssum seeds & plants aren’t too picky on growing conditions. An area of full sunlight is recommended, as well as temperatures of at least 65F to 70F. The soil doesn’t need to be rich in organic matter, but it will need to be well drained for successful growth. It is best to add a light compost to any areas that contain hard, compact soil to improve drainage. Water daily with a moderate moisture setting until germination occurs.
Germination & Growth
Your Alyssum seeds will begin to sprout within 7 to 21 days after sowing. The plants will grow to a short height of only 4 to 6 inches tall and can be spaced roughly 12 to 18 inches apart from one another. Carpet of Snow produces lovely clusters of pure white flowers. Because of its short height, it is perfect as a ground cover and is also great in rock gardens as well.