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Northwest Blooms · Groundcovers

Aubrieta deltoidea

Purple Rock Cress

Aubrieta deltoidea
Family
Brassicaceae
Height
4 to 6 inches
Width
12 to 24 inches
Flower color
Purple, pink, blue, with some cultivars in white or red
Foliage color
Gray-green
Bloom time
Blooms profusely in early spring
Light
Full sun to partial shade
Water
Moderate; avoid overwatering
Maintenance
Low maintenance; prune after flowering to maintain shape
Growing zone
4 to 8
Wildlife
Attracts bees and butterflies

About this plant

Aubrieta deltoidea, commonly known as Rock Cress, is an attractive perennial plant that forms a low-growing mat of colorful flowers in early spring, originating from Europe and western Asia. The plant has small, oval-shaped, gray-green leaves that are hairy to the touch. Its most striking feature is its profusion of small, four-petaled flowers that bloom in shades of purple, pink, blue, and occasionally white or red, creating a vibrant carpet of color. Ideal for rock gardens or as a ground cover, Rock Cress thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires moderate watering, avoiding overwatering to prevent root rot. It attracts bees and butterflies, adding a delightful touch of nature to any garden. Maintenance is minimal, with occasional pruning after flowering to maintain a neat shape and promote new growth. With its resilience and beauty, Rock Cress is a delightful addition to the early spring landscape.

Works well in

Pollinator Gardens · Deer-Prone Areas · Borders · Rock Gardens

Companion plants

Candytuft · Creeping phlox · Dianthus · Sedums · Blue fescue · Helianthemums

Design tip

Repeat this groundcover at several points throughout a sunny garden to create visual continuity between separate planting areas. Carrying the same flower color through the landscape helps unify the design while making individual beds feel intentionally connected.