Annual | Grows 4 inches tall, spreads 10 inches wide | Lobularia maritima
What if a single packet of seeds could transform a bare border into a rolling wave of deep purple? That's exactly what Alyssum 'Royal Carpet' does — and it starts blooming when the plant is just weeks old. An All-America Selections winner since 1953, this variety has been earning its place in gardens for over 70 years for good reason.
Why Gardeners Love It
- Rich purple color — blooms in dense, vibrant drifts that look like a tropical sea
- Blooms early and long — flowers appear within weeks of germination and last until season's end
- Low and wide — only 4 inches tall but spreads up to 10 inches, perfect for edging and ground cover
- Nearly pest and disease free — one of the easiest flowers to grow from seed
- Pairs beautifully with Alyssum 'Carpet of Snow' for a classic purple-and-white contrast
Sowing
Direct sow outdoors as soon as the ground can be worked, or as late as mid-July. Cover seed with just ⅛ inch of fine soil — don't bury them too deep. Can also be started indoors in March or April for an early head start.
Thinning
When seedlings reach 2–3 inches tall, thin or transplant to 6–10 inches apart. They'll spread and fill in to create that signature carpet effect.
Germination
Expect sprouts in 8–10 days, depending on soil temperature and conditions.
A Classic Pairing
Plant alongside Alyssum 'Carpet of Snow' for a stunning purple-and-white drift, or mix with Pansies, Lobelia, and dwarf Marigolds for a full-season cottage border that practically takes care of itself.