Yellow Alyssum, also known as “Basket of Gold,” is a beautiful flowering plant that may disappoint those expecting a sweet, honeysuckle scent. In fact, the flowers of yellow alyssum are notorious for their foul smell. When you come across this plant, it’s best not to expect a pleasant fragrance.
The odor emitted by yellow alyssum can be described as pungent, musky, or even slightly rotten. It is not a scent that most people find appealing. However, it’s important to note that scent perception is subjective, and what one person finds unpleasant, another may not mind as much. Some may even find the smell of yellow alyssum interesting or unique.
Despite its less-than-ideal fragrance, yellow alyssum remains a popular choice for gardeners due to its other attractive qualities. This plant is often chosen for its low-growing, spreading nature, making it an excellent option for groundcover. Its small, bright yellow flowers form a dense carpet-like display, adding a splash of color to gardens and landscapes.
When considering yellow alyssum for your garden, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons. While the smell may be off-putting, its visual appeal and ability to form a low, wide-reaching groundcover cannot be overlooked. If you can tolerate or even appreciate its unique scent, yellow alyssum can be a valuable addition to your garden.
In my personal experience with yellow alyssum, I have found that the scent can vary depending on the time of day and environmental conditions. During cooler evenings or early mornings, the smell tends to be less noticeable. However, on warm, sunny days, the odor can become more pronounced. It’s also worth noting that the smell may attract certain insects, which can be a consideration for those who are sensitive to bugs or have allergies.
To sum it up, yellow alyssum does not have a pleasant, sweet fragrance like honeysuckle. Instead, it is known for its foul smell, which can be described as pungent or musky. However, despite its odor, yellow alyssum remains a popular choice for its low-growing, spreading nature and vibrant yellow flowers. It’s ultimately a matter of personal preference whether or not you can tolerate or appreciate its unique scent.