Grow Alyssum, Royal Carpet from fresh Lobularia maritima flower seeds. Royal Carpet will produce clusters of beautiful, purple flowers all summer long. Growing to a mature height of only 2 to 4 inches tall, Alyssum, Royal Carpet makes a perfect Groundcover plant and is widely used in pots, containers and raised beds. It is a perfect choice for rock gardens because the masses of gorgeous flowers will creep over the rock. Alyssum, Royal Carpet is also sure to attract an array of beneficial insects to the garden, such as butterflies, bumblebees, hummingbirds & ladybugs as well.
Grown as a tender perennial, Alyssum, Royal Carpet will establish a deep root system, allowing it to return the following year when all danger of frost has passed. Keep in mind however, Alyssum plants will die with severely harsh frosts. Royal carpet is one of the 3 choices that we have available through our Alyssum flower seed category. Check out “Basket of Gold” and “Carpet of Snow” as well.
Quick Facts
- Type: Flower / Groundcover
- Color: Violet
- 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 2 to 4 inches tall and can be spaced roughly 12 to 18 inches apart from one another. Royal Carpet produces lovely clusters of violet flowers. Because of its short height, it is perfect as a ground cover and is also great in rock gardens as well.