Sweet alyssum toxic?

[hoodat]

I've seen sweet alyssum listed as a plant that repels rabbits but when small quantities end up in my cut greens my rabbits seem to eat it just fine. I can't find any information on whether or not it is toxic but as a rabbit repellent I think it's a bust.

 

[MaggieJ]

Some rather good information about sweet alyssum in its native Malta:
http://www.maltawildplants.com/CRUC/Lob ... ritima.php

Apparently it is not toxic and is a member of the mustard family. I would not worry about small amounts mixed with other plants, but would not suggest it as a major food source for rabbits, since we don't have enough information. Perhaps wild rabbits avoid it in preference to other plants that simply taste better. Caged rabbits will usually eat a wider variety although many seem to retain some caution where dubious plants are involved.

 

[hoodat]

That appears to be a different plant from the one sold as sweet alyssum in American seed racks. Ours has smaller flowers and a sprawling habit. I never tried tasting it myself. I'll have to nip some and see if it has a mustardy taste.

 

[MaggieJ]

Is yours Lobilaria maritima? There are many different varieties with different growth habits, just as there are many varieties of roses or tomatoes.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lobularia_maritima

 

[hoodat]

Is yours Lobilaria maritima? There are many different varieties with different growth habits, just as there are many varieties of roses or tomatoes.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lobularia_maritima

That's the one that grows all over the place in my garden. Your second link verified it. The first one threw me because it only referred to the upright form.
BTW, I verified that it does have a mild mustardy taste.