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Description
Lobularia maritima, also known as sweet alyssum or seaside lobularia, is a fast-growing annual plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. This plant is native to the Mediterranean region and is widely cultivated for its sweet fragrance and attractive flowers. The plant has a low-growing habit and can reach up to 1 foot in height.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Lobularia |
Appearance
The Lobularia Maritima has small, white, or pink flowers that grow in clusters. The plant has a sprawling or mounding habit and can grow up to 1 foot tall and 1 foot wide. The leaves are small and oval-shaped, and the flowers are sweetly fragrant, making it a popular choice for gardeners. The plant blooms from spring to summer, and the flowers are attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Care Guide
To care for your Lobularia Maritima, you need to make sure it is planted in well-draining soil and receives plenty of sunlight. Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Lobularia Maritima is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 10. In colder climates, it can be grown as an annual plant.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Lobularia Maritima is prone to spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled by regular spraying with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and downy mildew. To prevent these diseases, make sure the plant is not overcrowded and has good air circulation.
Habitat
Lobularia Maritima is native to the Mediterranean region and grows in coastal areas, rocky slopes, and sandy soils. It prefers full sun and well-draining soil but can tolerate some shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lobularia Maritima be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Lobularia Maritima can be grown in containers, but make sure the container has good drainage and is not too small for the plant.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Lobularia Maritima?
A: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the best time to plant Lobularia Maritima?
A: The best time to plant Lobularia Maritima is in the spring after the last frost.
Q: How often should I water my Lobularia Maritima?
A: Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Related Plants
- Brassica napus
- Brassica oleracea
- Brassica rapa
- Raphanus sativus
References
- “Lobularia maritima.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed on December 20, 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=h840>
- “Lobularia maritima.” Plant Care Today. Accessed on December 20, 2021. <https://plantcaretoday.com/lobularia-maritima.html>
- “Sweet Alyssum.” Old Farmer’s Almanac. Accessed on December 20, 2021. <https://www.almanac.com/plant/sweet-alyssum>
