Northwest Blooms · Groundcovers
Arabis alpina subsp. caucasica ‘Snowcap’
Snowcap Rock Cress

- Family
- Brassicaceae
- Height
- 6 to 12 inches
- Width
- 12 to 18 inches
- Flower color
- Pure white
- Foliage color
- Dark green
- Bloom time
- Early to mid-spring
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low
- Growing zone
- 4 to 7
- Wildlife
- Bees, butterflies
About this plant
Arabis alpina subsp. caucasica 'Snowcap' is a low-growing perennial prized for its profusion of small, pure white flowers that blanket the foliage in early spring. This compact cultivar forms a dense mat of evergreen foliage that remains attractive year-round, with narrow, dark green, slightly serrated leaves creating a neat, uniform appearance. In early to mid-spring, 'Snowcap' produces an abundance of small, four-petaled flowers that completely cover the plant, creating a stunning display and attracting bees and butterflies. Versatile and thriving in a variety of garden settings, it is well-suited for rock gardens, border edging, and ground cover. 'Snowcap' prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade, tolerating some shade in hotter climates. Relatively low-maintenance, it requires only occasional watering once established. 'Snowcap' adds beauty and elegance to the early spring garden with its profusion of white flowers and attractive foliage.
Works well in
Pollinator Gardens · Dear Prone Areas · Borders · Rock Gardens
Companion plants
Candytuft · Creeping Phlox · Dianthus · Sedums · Aubrietas · Helianthemums
Design tip
Allow this compact groundcover to spill gently over retaining walls, stone steps, or raised beds where its cascading habit softens hard edges. The flowing effect creates a natural transition between masonry and surrounding garden plantings while adding early-season charm.
