Alyssum argenteum

Alyssum argenteum, also known as silver alyssum, is a golden basket alyssum that blooms in the European Alps. This perennial species, rare in cultivation, blooms a little later than others, in June-July. In rocky areas, it forms a small loose clump that spreads over time and often self-seeds spontaneously. Its foliage has silver-grey reflections and its flowering is bright golden yellow.

Alyssum argenteum belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is a species native to the alpine regions of Europe, widespread in southeastern France, northwestern Italy, and southern Switzerland. In the wild, it is found on rocky soils up to 1300 m (4265ft) altitude. It is a perennial plant that reaches about 35 cm (14in) in height and 40-50 cm (16-20in) in width. Its slender stems bear small elliptical leaves with entire margins and pointed tips. Their colour is greenish-grey on the upper side, and the underside is downy and white. They persist more or less in winter. Flowering usually begins in June. It takes the form of inflorescences called corymbs, which are slightly loose flattened clusters. Each corymb is composed of small clusters of yellow flowers with 4 petals.

Golden basket alyssums thrive in well-drained soils, even rocky and occasionally dry ones. They are small plants perfect for covering the tops of walls, spaces between rocks in rockeries, similar to aubrietas, silver baskets, and bellflowers. They adorn the base of perennials and small bushes like rock conifers or caryopteris.  They can also be planted along pathways, always in well-drained soil. They also perform very well in pots and containers.