Alyssum Carpet of Snow

Alyssum 'Carpet of Snow' Sweet Alyssum 'Carpet of Snow'

A low, dense carpet of pure white honey-scented flowers that flowers from late spring through to autumn, self-seeds gently into the cracks between paving slabs, and produces one of the most pleasing scents in the cottage garden when you brush past it on a warm afternoon.

Sometimes the most useful plant in the garden is the smallest. 'Carpet of Snow' is a hardy annual that grows to just 10–15cm but spreads to make a generous low mound or carpet of pure white flowers. The honey scent is unmistakable and surprisingly powerful — plant it where you'll walk past it. As edging for paths, in rock gardens, in cracks between paving slabs, spilling over the edges of containers and hanging baskets, or as a quick ground cover beneath roses and taller perennials, it earns its place by being almost effortlessly useful. Self-seeds reliably without becoming invasive. Drought-tolerant once established. Excellent for bees and small pollinators.

A note on growing

Sow indoors from March to April at 15–20°C, or sow direct outdoors from late April once the soil has warmed. Surface-sow or barely cover — alyssum needs light to germinate. Germination takes one to two weeks. Plant out after the last frost in full sun and well-drained soil. Lean, free-draining ground produces more flowers; rich soil encourages lush foliage. Pinch back lightly after the first flush to encourage a second wave of flowers later in the season. Self-sown seedlings will appear in following years.

Where it shines

As path-edging where the scent can be appreciated, in gravel gardens and rock gardens where its low habit is at home, between roses and at the front of the cottage border, in containers and hanging baskets where it spills over the edges, and as living mulch in the kitchen garden — bees adore it and it attracts hoverflies that prey on aphids.

Plant alongside

For a classic cool cottage scheme, combine 'Carpet of Snow' with the electric blue of Cornflower 'Blue Ball' for a stunning two-tier border edge. The honey-scented white also makes a perfect frame for vivid colours — try it with Calendula or Nasturtium for warm contrast. In the kitchen garden, plant alongside vegetables to attract beneficial insects.