These colorful flowering plants will bring color to the garden and are commonly known as Rock-cress.
They are interesting in that they are related to Cabbages, however they are a low growing matt forming perennial best suited to the rock garden.
Grown for the flowers, usually a purple, that cover the plant from spring through summer. Also known as the lilac bush and rainbow rock cress, this is a plant that looks great when planted so that it can hang down over a low retaining wall.
The common form is Aubrieta deltoides, and is originally from southern Europe and likes a wet winter in a well drained soil and a warm summer. It is called rock cress because it naturally grows on rocky outcrops.
Care
Grows well in a humus rich soil in full sun to part shade. Can be grown from seed, and also grows well in containers. Best suited to zones 4 – 9.
Best suited to areas that have a distinct winter, rather than sub tropical climates. Provide water during summer months, but do not over water and allow to dry out between watering.
Varieties
Other Species Include :
- Aubrieta ‘Whitewell Gem’
- Aubrieta deltoidea ‘Cascade Red’
- Aubrieta x cultorum
- Aubrieta grandiflora
- Aubretia ‘Blaumeise’
- Aubrieta canescens
Propagation
Propagation is from seed, cuttings as well as by division of established clumps.
For those looking for variety, then seed is an option, best sown directly although you can sow indoors in late winter. Use a propagator that will provide good bottom heat. Seeds will germinate in 2 -3 weeks.
Try not to over water seedlings to prevent problems.
Where to Buy
You can find Aubrieta for sale at the following nurseries
SEQUIM RARE PLANTS
500 N. Sequim Ave. Sequim, WA 98382
