Contents
Description
Alyssum Alyssoides, commonly known as Yellow Alyssum, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. This species is native to Europe, including the Mediterranean region, and has been introduced to North America and other parts of the world. It is an annual herb that grows up to 60 cm tall and has a distinctive odor. The plant’s yellow flowers bloom in early summer and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Alyssum Alyssoides is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and containers, and its dried flowers are used in potpourri and sachets.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Alyssum |
| Species | Alyssum Alyssoides |
Appearance
The leaves of Alyssum Alyssoides are lance-shaped, gray-green, and hairy. The flowers are small, yellow, and have four petals. They bloom in dense clusters at the ends of the stems and have a sweet scent. The plant’s fruit is a slender, cylindrical pod that contains tiny black seeds. Yellow Alyssum is an annual plant that dies after one growing season and must be replanted each year.
Care Guide
Alyssum Alyssoides is easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance. It prefers well-drained soil that is slightly alkaline and full sun. Water the plant regularly, but do not overwater it as it is susceptible to root rot. Fertilize it once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Yellow Alyssum is hardy in USDA zones 3-9 and can tolerate mild frost.
Common Pests & Diseases
Alyssum Alyssoides is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. These can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Alyssum Alyssoides grows in rocky and sandy areas, including coastal cliffs, roadsides, and disturbed areas. It is often found in dry and sunny habitats and is well-adapted to drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Alyssum Alyssoides be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Alyssum Alyssoides can be grown in containers as long as they are well-drained and receive full sun.
Q: When should I plant Alyssum Alyssoides?
A: Alyssum Alyssoides should be planted in the spring after the last frost date in your area.
Q: How often should I water Alyssum Alyssoides?
A: Alyssum Alyssoides should be watered regularly, but be careful not to overwater as it is susceptible to root rot.
Q: Is Alyssum Alyssoides a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Alyssum Alyssoides is an annual plant that dies after one growing season and must be replanted each year.
Related Plants
- Alyssum montanum
- Alyssum saxatile
- Aurinia saxatilis
- Iberis sempervirens
References
- “Alyssum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 26 August 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c150
- “Alyssum alyssoides.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 26 August 2021. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:282335-1
- “Yellow Alyssum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 26 August 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/273/i-alyssum-alyssoides-i/details
