Mountain Alyssum

(Alyssum montanum)

Mountain Alyssum (Alyssum montanum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Alyssum montanum, commonly known as Mountain Alyssum, is an evergreen perennial herb native to the mountainous regions of Central and Southern Europe, including France, Switzerland, and Germany. It typically grows to a modest height of 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) and forms a low, mounding cushion of silvery-gray foliage. The plant is adorned with bright yellow, honey-scented flowers from late spring to early summer (May to July), which are highly attractive to pollinators and add a splash of color to the garden.

Mountain Alyssum is valued for its drought tolerance once established, making it an excellent choice for rock gardens, alpine gardens, and as a ground cover in sunny, well-drained areas. It is also used to edge borders and in container plantings due to its compact size and low maintenance requirements. In cultivation, it prefers full sun and well-drained soil, and it is hardy in USDA zones 3-9. While generally disease-free, it can suffer from root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.3-0.5 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

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

Natural Habitat

Mountainous regions of Central and Southern Europe

Other Names

Common Names: Mountain Alyssum , Mountain Madwort

Scientific Names: Alyssum montanum , Aduseton montanum , Adyseton montanum , Alyssum beugesiacum , Alyssum brevifolium , Alyssum collicola , Alyssum collinum , Alyssum montanum f. alibotuschiense , Alyssum montanum f. macrophyllum , Alyssum montanum f. microphyllum

GBIF Accepted Name: