A perennial whose golden yellow flowers form a carpet of colour in your garden. Hardy through most of the UK down to -15°C.
This golden flower grows atop its foliage in a fountain of bright yellow, eventually forming a shrub which adds a splash or eyecatching colour to your garden. This variety is the dwarf, 'compact' version, which will grow to about 20cm tall; it is really a carpet of golden blooms! Its silver-green foliage can remain year round if it's a mild enough winter to keep this plant evergreen; otherwise it should grow back in spring. Give it plenty of sun, and make sure its soil drains well, and it will reward you with a puddle of golden blooms to brighten up your garden in spring and summer.
Perennial
Flower: mat forming
Flowers April to June
Scientific Name Alyssum saxatile compactum (without rabies, rock, compact) 'Gold Ball'
Common Name syn. Aurinia saxatilis, Lobularia Basket of Gold, Golden Basket, Golden Tuft, Yellow Alyssum, Rock Madwort
Origin Native to Asia and Europe
Pruning Tips Trim back after flowering to help them maintain their size.
Wildlife Value Good for pollinators including bees, has been known to attract butterflies. On the RHS' Plants for Pollinators list.
Positioning Will appreciate full sun Water Drought tolerant, so doesn't need much extra water; only water if it's been extremely dry.
Soil Plant in well-draining, moderately fertile soil. Make sure it's never sat in a puddle or in soggy soil.
Food Doesn't need too much extra fertilising, make sure the soil is mulched every year or two.
Pet-safe Yes, this plant has no toxicity reported, although a lot of nibbling won't be good for your furry friend or the plant!
Sprouts Top Tips This is a low-maintenance plant; make sure it drains well and gets plenty of sun and you'll be good to go! Trim back after flowering if you want to keep it looking neat.
We have launched our first (hopefully monthly) ‘Letter from the Founder’ blog post. I talk about a string of bad luck, from water gushing from various ceilings in my life to a break-in, and also reflect on the incredible work we have done to win two awards earlier this year. I look ahead to what’s coming up in August, projects we are working on with our clients, and some thoughts about the rest of the year. And I give an insight into my brain, why I am who I am and why I’m so thankful for all the opportunities, passion and excitement that running Sprouts has given me as a founder and as a woman.