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Perennial

Aubrieta

Aubrieta deltoidea (and other spp.)

Rock CressPurple Rock CressFalse Rock CressAubretiaRainbow Rock Cress

Aubrieta is a low-growing perennial that forms colorful carpets of purple, pink, or white flowers. It symbolizes faithfulness, devotion, and the beauty of perseverance.

Plant Family

Brassicaceae (Mustard family)

Blooming

Early to mid-spring (March-May), sometimes secondary bloom in fall

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Vibrant carpet of Aubrieta rock cress flowers cascading over stone wall or rocky slope
Vibrant carpet of Aubrieta rock cress flowers cascading over stone wall or rocky slope

Symbolism & Meanings

Key Meanings

Faithfulness
Devotion
Perseverance
Endurance
Humble Beauty
Steadfast Love

Perfect For

Spring celebrationsEaster and renewal ceremoniesExpressions of faithful loveMemorial gardensRock garden dedications

Color Meanings

Purple:Faithfulness and devotion
Pink:Gentle love and affection
White:Pure devotion and innocence
Blue:Trust and loyalty

Similar flowers: bergenias and tradescantias also share similar meanings.

Cultural Significance

Aubrieta's ability to thrive in rocky, challenging conditions while producing abundant colorful blooms makes it a symbol of faithfulness and perseverance. In the language of flowers, it represents steadfast devotion and the beauty that can emerge from humble circumstances.

Botanical Information

Physical Characteristics

Flower Size: 1/2 inch diameter (1.3 cm), four-petaled cross-shaped flowers
Plant Size: 3-6 inches tall (7.5-15 cm) and 12-24 inches wide (30-60 cm)
Flower Shape: Four-petaled cross-shaped flowers typical of the mustard family

Natural Habitat

Native to: Southern Europe, Western Asia, Mediterranean Basin
Habitat: Rocky slopes, stone walls, alpine meadows, Mediterranean hillsides
Climate: Temperate, Mediterranean, Cool summer climates

Growing Guide

Sunlight

Full sun to partial shade; best flowering in full sun

Water

Low to moderate water; drought tolerant once established; avoid wet conditions

Soil

Well-drained, Rocky, Sandy, Alkaline preferred, pH 7.0-8.5

Expert Growing Tips

1

Shear back after flowering to encourage compact growth and possible second bloom

2

Provide excellent drainage; intolerant of wet, heavy soils

3

Plant in fall or early spring for best establishment

4

Self-seeds readily in suitable conditions

5

Divide every 3-4 years to maintain vigor

Uses & Benefits

Ornamental Uses

  • Rock gardens and alpine plantings
  • Cascading over walls and slopes
  • Ground cover for sunny, dry areas
  • Spring color displays and mass plantings
  • Container gardening and hanging baskets
  • Mediterranean-style gardens

Traditional Uses

  • Limited traditional medicinal use in Mediterranean cultures
  • Primarily grown for ornamental value
  • No significant modern medicinal applications documented

Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Aubrieta

What does Aubrieta symbolize?

Aubrieta symbolizes faithfulness, devotion, and perseverance. Its ability to bloom beautifully in rocky conditions represents steadfast love and endurance.

When does Aubrieta bloom?

Aubrieta blooms primarily in early to mid-spring (March-May), creating colorful carpets of flowers. Sometimes produces a secondary bloom in fall.

Is Aubrieta good for rock gardens?

Yes, Aubrieta is excellent for rock gardens, preferring well-drained, rocky soils and cascading beautifully over walls and slopes.

How do you care for Aubrieta after flowering?

Shear Aubrieta back after flowering to encourage compact growth and potentially a second bloom in fall, while maintaining the plant's shape.

Available Colors

Purple
Pink
Blue
White
Lavender
Red-purple
Magenta

Quick Facts

Type:perennial
Family:Brassicaceae (Mustard family)
Native to:Southern Europe
Blooms:Early to mid-spring (March-May), sometimes secondary bloom in fall

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