How to Grow Alyssum Coral Queen
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Alyssum Coral Queen
Lobularia maritima 'Coral Queen'
flowerCoral Queen is a compact, mounding annual alyssum variety known for its vibrant coral-pink flowers that bloom prolifically throughout the growing season. This cultivar is a heat and drought-tolerant ornamental that produces delicate, fragrant flower clusters ideal for borders, containers, and rock gardens. It typically reaches 4-6 inches in height, making it perfect for edging and groundcover applications.
When should you plant Alyssum Coral Queen in your zone?
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Example Alyssum Coral Queen timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Alyssum Coral Queen
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Alyssum Coral Queen blooms
Around May 22≈ 35 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-10; grown as annual in cooler regions, can overwinter in zones 9-10
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Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny seedlings with first true leaves emerge 7-14 days after sowing; very delicate appearance
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright light. Thin seedlings to proper spacing to avoid competition.
Vegetative Growth
2-3 weeksPlant develops multiple stems and foliage, forming a compact mound; dense branching structure emerges
Water regularly but allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Pinch back tips to encourage bushier growth if needed. Begin fertilizing with balanced or low-nitrogen fertilizer every 2-3 weeks.
Early Flowering
1-2 weeksFirst flower clusters appear at branch tips; small but visible coral-pink blooms forming
Continue regular watering. Apply dilute fertilizer every 2 weeks. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
Peak Blooming
6-10 weeks (extends until frost)Plant becomes covered in dense clusters of fragrant coral-pink flowers; continuous blooming throughout season
Deadhead regularly to maintain flowering. Water during dry spells. In intense heat, provide afternoon shade. Cut back leggy plants by one-third to rejuvenate.
Late Season/Decline
Variable, until frost or winter dormancyFlowering slows in late summer heat or as temperatures drop approaching frost; plant may become leggy
Cut back plant by half in mid-summer to rejuvenate for fall blooming. Protect from hard frosts. In warm zones, plant may persist into winter.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Row covers when young; insecticidal soap; neem oil spray; encourage beneficial insects
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Strong water spray to dislodge; insecticidal soap; neem oil; encourage ladybugs
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Yellow sticky traps; insecticidal soap; neem oil; reflective mulches
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Improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; sulfur dust or fungicide spray; prune affected leaves
Uses
Edible Flowers
CulinarySweet alyssum flowers are edible and make attractive, delicate garnishes for salads, desserts, and cocktails with a subtle sweet honey-like flavor. [source]
Cut Flowers & Arrangements
HouseholdThe fragrant flower clusters make excellent fillers for fresh or dried flower arrangements, corsages, and small bouquets. [source]
Dried Flowers
CraftAlyssum dries well and maintains color, making it suitable for pressed flower crafts, potpourri, and long-lasting floral arrangements. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeThe small fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators throughout the blooming season, supporting garden ecosystems. [source]
Landscape Edging & Groundcover
HouseholdCompact mounding habit makes it ideal for edging flower beds, borders, rock gardens, and containers, providing season-long color and texture. [source]
Harvest Tips
Alyssum is not harvested in traditional sense; rather, deadhead spent flower clusters regularly to promote continuous blooming. Pinch back the top 1-2 inches of stems to encourage bushier, more compact growth. For dried flowers, cut stems when flowers are fully open and hang upside down in a warm, dry location.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Despite its common name 'alyssum,' Lobularia maritima is not true alyssum (genus Alyssum) but was reclassified; it's often still called sweet alyssum or sweet alison by gardeners.
- 🌱 The coral-pink 'Coral Queen' variety is notably heat and drought-tolerant once established, making it excellent for xeriscaping and containers in hot climates.
- 🌱 Alyssum flowers are highly fragrant, especially in warm weather, releasing a sweet honey-like scent that intensifies in the evening and attracts numerous pollinators and beneficial insects.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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