Post Views: 133 Discover how to grow and care for alyssum flowers in Georgia. Learn their meaning, scientific name, and tips for year-round blooms. Perfect for gardeners of all levels! Hi there! I’m Anna Scott, a gardener with over 10 years of experience, and today I’m sharing my love for alyssum flowers—the tiny, fragrant blooms that can transform any garden. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned green thumb, this guide will answer your questions and help you grow these charming plants successfully, even in Georgia’s tricky climate. Here’s an information chart for Alyssum flowers (Lobularia maritima): Aspect Details Botanical Name Lobularia maritima Common Name Alyssum, Sweet Alyssum Plant Type Annual or perennial Hardiness Zone Zones 5-9 (annual in colder zones) Sun Exposure Full sun to partial shade Soil Type Well-drained, loamy or sandy Watering Moderate Growth Habit Low-growing, spreading Height/Spread 4-8 inches tall, 6-12 inches wide Special Features Fragrant, tiny white, pink or purple flowers; attracts pollinators; long blooming period What is Alyssum? Alyssum, commonly called “sweet alyssum”, is a low-growing annual or perennial (depending on your zone) known for its clusters of delicate flowers and honey-like scent. Its scientific name is Lobularia maritima, and it’s part of the Brassicaceae family. Fun fact: The name “alyssum” comes from the Greek word alysson, meaning “without madness,” as it was once believed to cure rabies! Key Details: The Meaning of Alyssum Flowers Alyssum symbolizes “beauty beyond appearance” and calmness. I often use it in my garden borders to add a serene, cottage-style charm. It’s also a favorite for wedding bouquets and memorial gardens because of its gentle symbolism. Growing Alyssum in Georgia: Seasonal Survival Guide One question I hear often is: “Do alyssums survive winter and summer in Georgia?” The answer? Yes—with a little care! 🌞 Summer Care: Georgia summers can be brutal. Alyssum thrives in mild temperatures (60–75°F) but may wilt in extreme heat. Here’s how I keep mine alive: ❄️ Winter Care: Alyssum is surprisingly frost-tolerant! In Georgia’s mild winters (zones 7b–8b), it often survives as a perennial. Protect roots with mulch, and trim dead growth in early spring. How to Plant Alyssum Seeds Planting alyssum from seeds is easy and budget-friendly. Here’s my step-by-step method: Pro Tip: Alyssum self-seeds! Let some flowers drop seeds for next year’s surprise blooms. Where Do Alyssums Grow Best in Georgia? Alyssum isn’t picky! It grows well: For Georgia-specific advice, check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map to confirm your zone. Alyssum Plant Classification: Quick Botany Lesson Common Questions Answered (FAQs) Q: What’s on an alyssum flower plant tag? A: Look for sun requirements (“full sun to partial shade”), height (4–6”), and spacing (6–8”). Q: Can I draw alyssum flowers easily? A: Absolutely! Their simple clusters and four-petal blooms make them perfect for botanical sketches. Q: Where to buy seeds? A: Local nurseries or trusted online retailers like Burpee. Why I Love Alyssum (And You Will Too!) Alyssum has been a staple in my garden for years. It’s resilient, fragrant, and pairs beautifully with veggies like tomatoes (see my companion planting guide). Plus, it’s a pollinator magnet! Final Tips for Success For more flower guides, visit my perennial flowers page. Happy gardening! 🌸Anna ScottUSA Garden Hub