Northwest Blooms · Groundcovers
Alyssum spinosum
Spiny Madwort
- Family
- Brassicaceae
- Height
- 8 in to 12 in
- Width
- 18 in to 24 in
- Flower color
- White to pale pink four petaled flowers
- Foliage color
- Gray green narrow leaves on thorny branching stems
- Bloom time
- Mid to late spring
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Low
- Maintenance
- Low; prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact shape
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 5 to 9
- Wildlife
- Bees, butterflies and other pollinators attracted to the nectar rich flowers
About this plant
Alyssum spinosum produces masses of tiny, four-petaled white to soft pink flowers in mid to late spring, covering the branches and attracting bees and other early pollinators. Small, narrow gray-green leaves are softly hairy and closely spaced along rigid, thorny stems, forming a dense, finely textured mound that remains attractive throughout the year. The intricate branching creates a naturally sculptural framework, while the profusion of blooms softens the plant's spiny character during the flowering season.
Native to the rocky hillsides of the Mediterranean region, this species is well adapted to rugged landscapes and exposed sites. It is well suited to rock gardens, gravel plantings, retaining walls, and Mediterranean-style borders, where its evergreen foliage, intricate branching, and spring flowers provide year-round texture and seasonal interest.
Works well in
Coastal Gardens · Borders · Pollinator Gardens · Rock Gardens
Companion plants
Lavender · Helianthemum · Santolina · Thyme · Sedums · Euphorbias
Design tip
Position among rocks, gravel, or retaining walls where its compact evergreen form softens hard edges without concealing stonework.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
