Small Alison
Alyssum alyssoides
Last reviewed: June 2026
Small Alison (Alyssum alyssoides) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org, last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–12" H × 3"–8" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
NE
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Small alison is a low-growing annual wildflower that forms compact mats of small, narrow leaves topped with tiny white flower clusters in spring and early summer. This drought-tolerant plant thrives in full sun and poor soils, making it useful for challenging growing conditions. It completes its lifecycle quickly, typically finishing by midsummer.
In an HOA neighborhood
Small Alison takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very small flowers may appear weedy to HOAs
- Dies back completely by midsummer leaving gaps
- Annual nature requires replanting or creates bare patches
Wildlife value
The small white flowers attract native bees and beneficial beetles during the spring blooming period. As an annual, it provides early season nectar when few other plants are flowering.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Small Alison fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.