How to Grow Sweet Alyssum 'Snow Princess Wonderland White'
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Sweet Alyssum 'Snow Princess Wonderland White'
Lobularia maritima 'Snow Princess Wonderland White'
flowerA compact, mounding annual flower renowned for its delicate, fragrant white blooms that cover the plant from spring through frost. This cultivar is part of the popular 'Snow Princess Wonderland' series and produces abundant clusters of tiny flowers ideal for edging, containers, and rock gardens. It grows low and spreading, making it perfect for groundcover and cascading applications.
When should you plant Sweet Alyssum 'Snow Princess Wonderland White' in your zone?
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Example Sweet Alyssum 'Snow Princess Wonderland White' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Sweet Alyssum 'Snow Princess Wonderland White'
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 Sweet Alyssum 'Snow Princess Wonderland White' blooms
Around May 22≈ 35 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-11 as an annual; perennial in zones 9-11
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Get my Sweet Alyssum 'Snow Princess Wonderland White' timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
10-14 daysTiny, delicate true leaves emerge; plants are very small and fragile with minimal root development.
Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy. Provide bright light (not direct heat). Maintain temperature around 65-70°F. Thin seedlings to proper spacing once they have 2-3 true leaves.
Vegetative Growth
15-25 daysPlant develops bushy, mounding structure with numerous small oval leaves. Foliage is bright green and dense.
Pinch back growing tips when plant is 2-3 inches tall to encourage bushier growth. Water regularly and maintain even moisture. Begin fertilizing weekly with half-strength balanced fertilizer.
Budding & Early Flowering
10-14 daysTiny flower buds appear clustered at stem tips; first white flowers begin to open in small clusters.
Continue regular watering and weekly fertilizing. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Ensure full sun exposure for optimal flower production.
Peak Blooming
60-120+ daysPlant is covered in abundant clusters of fragrant white flowers; dense mounding form is fully achieved.
Deadhead regularly to maintain continuous flowering. Water during dry spells. Reduce fertilizer frequency to every 2 weeks if desired. Plant remains in this stage for months until frost.
Decline (End of Season)
4-6 weeks before frostFlowering gradually reduces as temperatures cool in fall; foliage may show some yellowing or browning.
Plant dies back with first hard frost (below 28°F). In mild climates, may overwinter and regrow. Remove spent plant material and compost.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Use row covers on young plants; spray neem oil or insecticidal soap at first sign of damage; encourage beneficial predators
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Remove heavily infested leaves; spray insecticidal soap or neem oil; introduce yellow sticky traps; maintain good air circulation
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Spray with strong water spray to dislodge; use insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage ladybugs and lacewings
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Increase humidity by misting; spray neem oil or miticide; remove heavily infested foliage
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and
Hand-pick in early morning; create barriers with copper tape; use beer traps; encourage ground beetles
Uses
Pollinator Support
WildlifeSweet alyssum is an excellent nectar source for bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects. The abundant small flowers provide continuous food from spring through frost. [source]
Fragrant Borders & Containers
HouseholdThe delicate white flowers and sweet honey-like fragrance make this ideal for edging garden beds, window boxes, hanging baskets, and containers near seating areas. [source]
Cut Flowers & Arrangements
CraftSmall clusters can be cut for delicate fresh arrangements and bouquets. The flowers dry reasonably well for dried arrangements. [source]
Groundcover & Cascade Effects
HouseholdThe mounding, spreading growth habit makes it perfect for cascading over container edges, filling gaps between stepping stones, and creating soft landscape borders. [source]
Edible Flowers
CulinarySweet alyssum flowers are edible with a mild, slightly sweet flavor and can be used as delicate garnishes for salads, desserts, and gourmet dishes. [source]
Harvest Tips
As an ornamental flower, no harvesting is necessary. However, the fragrant flowers can be cut for small arrangements when in full bloom. Pinch or deadhead spent flower clusters regularly to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Despite its common name 'Sweet Alyssum,' this plant is actually in the Lobularia genus and is not a true alyssum; it was reclassified in the 1970s but the common name persisted in horticulture.
- 🌱 The flowers release their strongest fragrance in cool morning and evening temperatures, and the scent intensifies when crushed or brushed against.
- 🌱 Snow Princess Wonderland White is a relatively new cultivar bred for exceptional heat and cold tolerance, compact mounding form, and extended bloom duration compared to older alyssum varieties.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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