How to grow Alyssum in Australia
Sow alyssum in full sun to part shade in any free-draining soil, scattering seed on the surface as it needs light to germinate. Keep moist until it establishes, then water moderately as it copes with dry spells.
At a glance
- Difficulty: Beginner
- Sun: Full sun
- Water: 3 litres a week, watered every 3 days
- Spacing: 20 cm
- Time to harvest: 55 days
- Time to germinate: 10 days
- Soil pH: 6 to 7.5
- Frost tolerance: Half hardy
When to sow by region
| Region | When to sow | Regional note |
|---|---|---|
| South East Queensland | March to October | |
| Northern Rivers NSW | March to October | |
| Sydney & Coastal NSW | March to October | |
| Melbourne & Victoria | March to October | Frost-tolerant; sow Mar to Oct in Melbourne. Longer season than SEQ. |
| Adelaide & SA | March to October | |
| Perth & WA | March to October | |
| Tasmania | March and April, September to November | Sow Sep to Nov or Mar to Apr. Hardy and easy. |
| Canberra & ACT | March to October | Alyssum is frost-hardy annual; sow spring or autumn; blooms most of year in cool Canberra; small delicate flowers. |
| North Queensland | May to October | Dry season May to Oct. Alyssum prefers cooler months. |
| Darwin & Top End | May to October | Dry season May to Oct. Alyssum prefers cooler months. |
Companion planting
Good companions
- Lettuce
- Brassicas
- Beans
- Strawberry
Harvest and storage
Harvest tip
Snip flowering stems while the tiny blooms are fully open and fragrant. Regular cutting and shearing keeps fresh flushes coming all season.
Storage
Use within 1 to 2 days of picking.