Pale Madwort

(Alyssum alyssoides)

Pale Madwort (Alyssum alyssoides)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Alyssum alyssoides, commonly known as pale madwort or yellow alyssum, is an annual or biennial herb native to gravelly soils, disturbed sites, and open areas in Eurasia. It has become naturalized in many parts of the temperate world, including North America, where it is often found in arable fields, along sandy tracks, and in waste places. This plant typically grows upright or prostrate, reaching up to 16 inches in height. It produces clusters of bright yellow flowers from May to July, which fade to white as they age. The flowers are small but numerous, creating a showy display when in full bloom. The fruits are hairy, branched siliques that can be up to half a centimeter long. Its leaves are simple, narrowly oblanceolate or linear, and covered with fine hairs.

Pale madwort is valued for its ability to thrive in poor soils and its drought tolerance, making it a suitable choice for rock gardens, xeriscaping, and as a ground cover in sunny, well-drained areas. It is also used for erosion control on slopes and banks. In cultivation, it prefers full sun and can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they are well-drained. While it is a self-seeding plant, it is not typically aggressive in garden settings. However, in some regions, it is considered a weed and may require management to prevent unwanted spread.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1.5 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Semi-deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Border Plant, Drought Tolerant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Gravelly soils, disturbed sites, and open areas in Eurasia

Other Names

Common Names: Yellow Alyssum, Small Alyssum

Scientific Names: , Alyssum alyssoides, Aduseton calycinum, Aduseton mutabile, Adyseton alyssoides, Adyseton calycinum, Adyseton campestre, Adyseton mutabile, Alyssum alsinifolium, Alyssum alyssoides f. albineum

GBIF Accepted Name: