Still widely and confusingly known as alyssum, after the genus in which it was originally included, this group of 5 species of annuals and perennials in the cabbage family (Brassicaceae) occurs naturally in the northern temperate zone and especially around the Mediterranean and Canary Islands. They are small mounding plants with simple linear to lance-shaped leaves, sometimes with fine silvery hairs. Their flowers, which appear over the warmer months, are tiny, often sweetly scented, and are borne in rounded heads. Garden forms occur in white and shades of primrose, apricot, mauve, and purple, and make pretty additions to a bedding scheme. The genus name comes from the Latin lobulus (a pod) and refers to the small seed capsules.
CULTIVATION
These plants are hardy and very easily grown in any sunny position with light free-draining soil. Watering will encouarage heavier flowering but the plants are often more compact and less inclined to fall apart from the center if kept rather dry. Propagate from seed, which may be carefully sown or simply broadcast. Lobularia plants often self-sow.
Top Tip
These uniform and compact plants with their heavy blooming and sweet scent are great as fillers in summer beds, a well as along walls and paths.
CULTIVATION
These plants are hardy and very easily grown in any sunny position with light free-draining soil. Watering will encouarage heavier flowering but the plants are often more compact and less inclined to fall apart from the center if kept rather dry. Propagate from seed, which may be carefully sown or simply broadcast. Lobularia plants often self-sow.
Top Tip
These uniform and compact plants with their heavy blooming and sweet scent are great as fillers in summer beds, a well as along walls and paths.
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