Mountain Alyssum
Mountain alyssum is a short perennial flower grown for its bright yellow flowers.
It has grey-green leaves which form a low-growing mat. In spring, the plant is topped by clusters of tiny fragrant yellow flowers.
It works well in rock gardens and areas where a small, mat-like plant are desirable. Can also cascade over the edge of a wall or boulder.
Mountain alyssum is sometimes confused with basket of gold. Basket of gold is a larger plant and more commonly planted.
Mountain Alyssum
Mountain alyssum is a short perennial flower grown for its bright yellow flowers.
It has grey-green leaves which form a low-growing mat. In spring, the plant is topped by clusters of tiny fragrant yellow flowers.
It works well in rock gardens and areas where a small, mat-like plant are desirable. Can also cascade over the edge of a wall or boulder.
Mountain alyssum is sometimes confused with basket of gold. Basket of gold is a larger plant and more commonly planted.
Plant details
Botanic Name
Alyssum montanum
Pronunciation
uh-LISS-um mon-TAY-num
Mature Height
4 to 8 in.
Mature Spread
12 to 18 in.
Water usage
One Droplet: Water twice per month or less, once established.
Two Droplets: Water about once per week, once established.
Three Droplets: Water about twice per week, once established.
Flower Color
yellow
Bloom time
spring
Natural Habitat
Mediterranean
Light Requirements
sun
Cold Hardiness
USDA zones 4-8
Elevation Limit
hardy to 8,000 ft.
Performance
Mountain alyssum has been winter hardy and a reliable bloomer at the Water Wise Demonstration Garden. It is rather small, so it needs to be sited in an area where it will be noticed.
Maintenance
Prune off spent flowers, if desired.