Royal Carpet Alyssum Seeds

Alyssum is a dainty and adorable compact flower for borders and containers. This sweetly fragrant flower makes a great ground cover. Beautiful purple flowers bloom quickly from seed. Can bloom all year in Southern California!

Planting by Zones

Zones 9-10

• Alyssum grows incredibly easily in the mild climates of Zones 9 and 10. It’s best to plant seeds in the fall to let them overwinter and be well established by spring. Alyssum plants enjoy cool temperatures and ample moisture. They do well in container arrangements and can be moved to partial shade during the warmer months.

Zones 3-8

• Alyssum is a quickly growing bedding plant that can be sown indoors 4-5 weeks before the last frost and transplanted out after the danger of frost is gone.

Planting Alyssum Seeds

• Seed can be direct sown or transplanted. Because alyssum seeds are so small, transplanting is sometimes the better option. Plant seeds on top of well-moistened quality seed starting soil and cover with ¼” of finely sifted soil. Keep soil moist until germination. The same directions can be followed if you are direct sowing.

Growing Alyssum

• This plant can be grown in so many areas of the garden! We love to plant it at the end of our veggie garden rows, in planter boxes, in pots, and even in hanging pots! Alyssum is a quickly growing, trouble-free plant that smells wonderful. It adds color and beauty to any garden space.

Growing Alyssum in Containers

• If you are planting alyssum in containers, make sure your container is at least 10″ deep. Keep in mind containers will dry out faster because they have more surface area and less soil to hold onto moisture. Alyssum can be squeezed in with other plants to make stunning container arrangements.   

Harvesting Alyssum Flowers

• Alyssum flowers are beautiful but are best left on the plant for pollinators to enjoy.

Southern California Pro-tips

• In areas of Zones 9 and 10 with mild winters, you can plant in the fall to grow through the winter and bloom in the spring. Often times it will reseed happily and spread throughout the garden.
• Mulch heavily around the plants to keep the soil moist and cool.

Companion Flowers/Crops

• Alyssum is one of the best companion flowers for vegetable gardens. It does not disturb other plants and can fit into tiny places. If we could, we would have it growing everywhere! Shop all our flowers here.
• Learn about pollinator plants and their importance to your garden.

Additional Learning Resources

• New to starting crops from seeds? Please watch our Seed Starting Presentation to learn the basics!
• Learn about growing all our crops on our YouTube page!
• Having pest issues? Check out the in-depth information at the UC Integrated Pest Management site.