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Alpine rockcress

Arabis alpina · Brassicaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant alpine rockcress: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

JFMAMJJASOND Planting

ID card

Foliage
Evergreen
Flowering
Spring (March to May)
Adult size
15–30 cm tall, 30–40 cm spread
Growth rate
Fast
Hardiness
Very hardy (down to −20 °C)
Origin
Alpine chain (Central and Southern Europe)
Soil type
Well-drained, chalky or neutral, poor to moderately fertile

Care

Light exposure

Alpine rockcress prefers a sunny location to flower abundantly. It tolerates light part shade but will flower less generously. Place it on a rocky ledge, a wall, or a raised bed receiving at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.

Watering

Water moderately during the growing and flowering period. Let the soil dry between waterings: this is a mountain plant that fears stagnant moisture. In winter and once established, natural rainfall is usually sufficient.

Soil and drainage

Choose a very well-drained substrate, poor to moderately rich. Alpine rockcress appreciates chalky or neutral soils. Amend the soil with gravel or pumice to improve drainage if your soil is heavy.

Pruning and pinching

Remove spent flowers to extend flowering. After flowering, prune the clump lightly to maintain its compactness and encourage branching. A fall cleanup of dead leaves is generally sufficient.

Fertilizing

Undemanding, alpine rockcress does not require regular fertilizer. A moderate application of compost or weakly dosed fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Avoid excess nitrogen, which promotes foliage at the expense of flowering.

Diseases and pests

Generally robust, it can be affected by fungi from excess moisture (mildew, root rot). Respect good drainage conditions and ensure good air circulation. Pests are rare in cultivation.

Did you know?

Alpine rockcress was long used by alpine botanists as an indicator plant for the quality of mountain soils. Its white or pale pink flowers resemble stars and open as the snow melts at altitude, making it a natural symbol of spring renewal in the Alps.

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.