Armeria 'Alba'

Armeria maritima 'Alba': Pearl Drift Sea Thrift

Tidy, tufted, and endlessly charming, Armeria 'Alba' delivers crisp white pom-pom blooms above neat mounds of grassy foliage from mid to late spring. This compact perennial thrives in sunny, dry sites and adds a clean, coastal elegance to rock gardens, gravel beds, and edge plantings. Its petite stature and salt tolerance make it an excellent choice for tough urban spots or seaside-inspired landscapes, all while attracting pollinators with its bright, nectar-rich flowers.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 15–20 cm
• Spread: 20–25 cm
• Flower Colour: White
• Flowering Period: Mid to late spring
• Foliage: Evergreen, narrow, grass-like, dark green
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, sandy or rocky soil; drought-tolerant

Uses and Benefits: Armeria 'Alba' is ideal for edging sunny paths, tucking into crevices in rock walls, or softening hardscape with its fine texture and low profile. Drought-tolerant and easy to maintain, it excels in xeriscapes and coastal-style plantings. Its white blooms bring a fresh note to spring compositions, while the evergreen foliage keeps borders looking tidy year-round.

Companion Plants: Pair with the spreading bronze tones of Sedum 'Coral Carpet', the cool steel-blue tufts of Festuca 'Beyond Blue', and the tiny, aromatic foliage of Thymus 'Elfin' for a sun-loving combination that’s low, textural, and full of contrast.

Care Instructions: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil—avoid overly rich or wet conditions. Water sparingly once established. Deadhead spent blooms to extend flowering, and trim back foliage in late winter if needed to refresh the clump. Divide every few years in spring to maintain vigour.

History: Native to coastal areas of Europe and North America, Armeria maritima has long been valued for its resilience and charm. The white-flowered 'Alba' selection brings a bright twist to the traditional pink, with the same tough, adaptable nature gardeners have trusted for generations.

Final Thoughts: Compact, clean, and quietly eye-catching, Armeria 'Alba' is a brilliant choice for sunny spaces where beauty meets simplicity. Whether nestled in gravel or dancing along a path, it delivers lasting spring freshness with very little fuss.