Growing Alyssum and Amaranthus: Edging Annuals and Tropical Foliage Stars

Sweet Alyssum (Lobularia maritima) and Amaranthus (love-lies-bleeding, Joseph's coat) couldn't be more different—one a low, honey-scented carpet; the other a bold, architectural statement. Both are easy from seed.

Alyssum: The Classic Edger

• Annual alyssum: Sow direct Apr (thin to 6″) or start indoors Mar. Full sun, lean soil. Rich soil = leggy, fewer flowers.
• Perennial (A. saxatile 'Goldkugel'): Rock gardens, walls. Spring yellow clouds. Trim after bloom. Sharp drainage critical—rots in wet winter clay.
• Propagation: Perennial: cuttings (Jul–Aug) in sand, cold frame. Seed (Mar cold frame or Jun outdoors).

Amaranthus: Drama in the Border

• Half-hardy annual. Start indoors Mar (65°F). Pot up at 2 true leaves. Harden off. Plant out late May/Jun.
• Needs: Full sun, rich soil, consistent moisture. Stake tall types.
• Stars: A. caudatus (tassels), A. tricolor (flaming foliage), A. hypochondriacus (upright plumes).
• Seed: Self-sows readily. Collect before shatter.

Design Pairings

Alyssum spilling over container edges, under roses, along paths. Amaranthus as focal points in island beds, back of borders, or large pots.