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Sweet Alyssum: Features and Care

Lobularia maritima
伊東 春乃

Sweet Alyssum is a hardy annual or perennial plant known for its clusters of small flowers and delightful fragrance. Easy to grow in gardens or containers, it’s a popular choice for borders and mixed plantings.

This article explores Sweet Alyssum’s key features, cultural significance, historical background, and care tips.

Basic Information

  • Scientific NameLobularia maritima
  • Family: Brassicaceae
  • Origin: Mediterranean region
  • Appearance:
    Sweet Alyssum is a compact plant, growing 10–30 cm in height. Its small, rounded flower clusters come in white, purple, or pink shades, with fine, green, linear leaves that add to its delicate look.
  • Blooming Period:
    It blooms from spring to autumn and can flower year-round under favorable conditions.

Cultural Significance Around the World

Sweet Alyssum has played an important role in garden designs worldwide. In Europe, it is a staple in Mediterranean rock gardens and cottage gardens, where it creates a colorful and aromatic landscape. In France and Italy, Sweet Alyssum is often planted on patios and terraces, adding a relaxing atmosphere with its sweet fragrance.

In traditional English gardens, Sweet Alyssum is valued for edging borders and as ground cover, providing a natural flow to garden designs. It has also become widely popular in modern urban gardens across the Americas and Asia, where it adds charm to small spaces or large public parks alike.

Historical Background

Sweet Alyssum has a long history, dating back to ancient Greek and Roman times when it was cultivated for its ornamental value. Its sweet fragrance made it a favorite for outdoor feasts and festivals. During the Middle Ages, it was referred to as the “jewel of rock gardens” and featured in monastic and noble gardens.

In the 18th century, as horticulture flourished, new varieties of Sweet Alyssum were developed. White, purple, and pink-flowered types were introduced, enhancing its versatility in garden designs and securing its place as a cherished garden plant.

Gardening Advice

Sweet Alyssum is an easy-to-care-for plant that thrives with proper attention. Follow these tips to get the best results:

Light

Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Reduced light may result in fewer blooms.

Watering

Water when the soil surface is dry. Avoid overwatering, as Sweet Alyssum is sensitive to excessive moisture.

Soil

Well-draining, light soil is ideal. Sandy soils are great for garden planting, while adding perlite to potting soil works well for containers.

Fertilizer

Apply diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season. Avoid excessive nitrogen, as it can reduce flowering.

Pruning

Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new blooms. Trim overgrown branches to maintain a tidy appearance.

Conclusion

Sweet Alyssum is a charming plant known for its delicate flowers and sweet fragrance. Perfect for borders or mixed plantings, it brings a light and airy touch to any garden.

Its low-maintenance nature makes it an excellent choice for gardeners of all skill levels. Enjoy its beauty and fragrance in your garden or container arrangements throughout the seasons.

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