1784 J. Abercrombie II. 392 Alyssum..saxatile. Rock, Yellow Madwort of Crete.
1868 Apr. 308 It [sc. A. saxatile] is commonly called Yellow Alyssum, or Rock Madwort; its effect when contrasted with the snowy whiteness of Arabis albida..is most brilliant.
1905 10 June 342/1 Few plants are better known or more valued in the garden than the typical Rock Madwort.