How to Grow Alyssum 'Wonderland Purple Snow Princess'
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Alyssum 'Wonderland Purple Snow Princess'
Lobularia maritima 'Wonderland Purple Snow Princess'
flowerA compact, mounding annual flower known for its densely packed clusters of small, fragrant purple blooms with white centers. This cultivar is prized for creating vibrant low-growing borders, edging, and container displays. The plant produces continuously from spring through fall with minimal deadheading required.
When should you plant Alyssum 'Wonderland Purple Snow Princess' in your zone?
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Example Alyssum 'Wonderland Purple Snow Princess' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Alyssum 'Wonderland Purple Snow Princess'
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 'Wonderland Purple Snow Princess' 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 most regions, perennial in zones 9-10
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Germination & Seedling
7-14 daysTiny seedlings emerge with cotyledons (seed leaves); true leaves develop within 1-2 weeks
Keep soil moist but not soggy. Provide 12-14 hours of bright light. Thin seedlings to proper spacing once true leaves appear. Maintain warm temperature (65-70°F).
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksPlant develops bushy, compact mounding structure with increasing foliage; no flowers yet
Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist. Pinch back growing tips once plant has 3-4 inches of growth to encourage bushier form. Begin fertilizing with diluted balanced fertilizer every 2 weeks.
Bud Formation & Early Flowering
2-3 weeksFirst flower clusters appear at stem tips; buds visible in dense groups
Continue regular watering and feeding. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Maintain consistent moisture—drying out can stress flowering.
Peak Flowering
8-12 weeks or until frostPlant is covered with abundant purple and white flower clusters; continuous blooming throughout season
Deadhead regularly to maintain peak bloom. Water deeply but allow surface to dry between waterings. Fertilize every 2-3 weeks with flower-boosting formula (higher phosphorus). Reduce watering in extreme heat to prevent stress.
Late Season & Decline
Variable; until killing frostFlowering slows with first frost; foliage may decline; plant naturally senesces
In zones 9-10 where plant persists, cut back to encourage spring regrowth. In colder zones, allow to complete its life cycle or remove before heavy frost. Collect seed if desired for next year.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Handpick; use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray; row covers in early season
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Spray with strong water jet; insecticidal soap; neem oil; encourage natural predators like ladybugs
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Increase humidity; spray with water; use miticide if severe; encourage predatory mites
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Yellow sticky traps; insecticidal soap; neem oil spray; remove heavily infested leaves
Uses
Edible Flowers
CulinaryAlyssum flowers are mildly sweet and edible, commonly used as garnish on salads, desserts, and drinks. The delicate purple and white blooms add visual appeal and a subtle flavor to culinary presentations. [source]
Fresh & Dried Arrangements
CraftThe fragrant flower clusters are excellent for cutting and arranging in bouquets, and retain their color well when dried for long-lasting floral arrangements and crafts. [source]
Fragrance & Perfume
HouseholdAlyssum is known for its sweet, honey-like fragrance that makes it popular in gardens and as cut flowers for scenting indoor spaces naturally. [source]
Pollinator Garden
WildlifeAbundant small flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators throughout the blooming season, making it excellent for supporting wildlife gardens. [source]
Border & Ground Cover
HouseholdThe compact, mounding habit and continuous flowering make it ideal for edging beds, pathways, rock gardens, and container plantings with minimal maintenance required. [source]
Harvest Tips
Alyssum is grown for ornamental flowers rather than harvest. Cut flower clusters for bouquets by pinching or cutting stems; this promotes bushier growth and more blooms. Collect seed heads in late summer by allowing flowers to dry on plant, then store dried seed in cool, dry location for next season.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Despite its common name 'alyssum,' this plant was recently reclassified from Alyssum to Lobularia maritima; the name change recognizes it as a distinct genus distinct from true alyssum species.
- 🌱 A single mature plant can produce thousands of seeds, which explains why alyssum often self-seeds freely in gardens and can naturalize in favorable climates.
- 🌱 The 'Wonderland' series was specifically bred for compact, mounding form and exceptional flower density, making it a favorite for commercial landscaping and container gardens.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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