What is the Difference Between Alyssum & Creeping Phlox?

Creeping phlox is available in different colors than sweet alyssum.

Sweet alyssum (Lobularia maritima) and creeping phlox (Phlox subulata) are both used in rock gardens, ground covers, hanging baskets, flower gardens and borders. Both types of flowers grow up to 12 inches tall in USDA plant hardiness zones three to 10.

Identification

Sweet alyssum has leaves similar to small dandelion leaves. Creeping phlox leaves resemble blades of grass that blend into a lawn until the plant flowers.

Benefits

Creeping phlox produces blossoms in pink, lavender, white and red during the late winter and spring. This is one of the first flowers to blossom in the spring. Sweet alyssum produces clusters of tiny white flowers that bloom the entire summer. Alyssum will continue to blossom year-round in frost-free climates.

Geography

Sweet alyssum plants originate in Southern Europe and have naturalized in North America. Creeping phlox is native to North America.

Warning

Alyssum plants cannot withstand frosty temperatures and die back in cold climates. Creeping phlox spreads aggressively and will escape cultivation under the right conditions.

References

• University of Florida IFAS Extension: Creeping Phlox
• AgriLife: Sweet Alyssum