Basic Information

Common Name: Aubrieta

Scientific Name: Aubrieta

Native Habitat: Rocky slopes and alpine regions of Southern Europe and Southwest Asia.

History / Discovery / Cultivator

Aubrieta, often called Rock Cress or False Rock Cress, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Brassicaceae (mustard family). The genus is named after French botanical artist, Claude Aubriet (1665-1742), who worked at the Jardin du Roi (now the Jardin des Plantes) in Paris. While Aubriet himself likely did not discover or cultivate the plant, the naming honors his contributions to botanical illustration, which were vital for the identification and classification of plants during his time.

The plant’s origins are rooted in the mountainous regions of Southern Europe and Southwest Asia. It thrives in rocky, well-drained environments, often found clinging to cliffs and slopes. Its discovery and early cultivation likely occurred as botanists and plant collectors explored these regions, drawn by the vibrant colors of its blooms that appear in early spring. The exact date of its formal botanical description is difficult to pinpoint, but it gained popularity in European gardens during the 18th and 19th centuries.

The appeal of Aubrieta lies in its ability to create a cascading carpet of color. Its low-growing, spreading habit makes it ideal for rock gardens, walls, and edging, where it can tumble gracefully over surfaces. The flowers, typically in shades of purple, pink, and blue, are small but profuse, creating a stunning display. Early cultivators focused on selecting and propagating varieties with enhanced flower color and vigor. Over time, numerous cultivars were developed, each offering unique characteristics in terms of flower shade, plant size, and growth habit. These cultivars have contributed significantly to Aubrieta’s enduring popularity in horticulture. The ease of cultivation, coupled with its visual appeal, has cemented Aubrieta’s place as a beloved spring-blooming plant in gardens around the world. Modern breeders continue to develop new varieties, further expanding the color palette and improving the plant’s resilience to various growing conditions. Its adaptability and relatively low maintenance requirements contribute to its continued widespread use in both private and public gardens.

Plant Care Summary

Botanical Insights

Adaptations

Aubrieta’s adaptations are well-suited to its native rocky and alpine environments. Its low-growing, mat-forming habit allows it to withstand strong winds and cling to exposed surfaces. The slightly hairy leaves help reduce water loss through transpiration, an important adaptation for drought-prone areas. The plant’s tolerance for alkaline soils is another key adaptation, as many rocky areas have a higher pH. Its ability to thrive in nutrient-poor soils allows it to colonize areas where other plants struggle. The vibrant flower colors attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, ensuring successful reproduction.

Propagation Methods

Aubrieta can be readily propagated through several methods:

• Seed: Sow seeds indoors in early spring or directly outdoors after the last frost.
• Stem Cuttings: Take stem cuttings in late spring or early summer and root them in a well-draining medium.
• Division: Divide established plants in spring or fall. This is a good way to rejuvenate older plants and create new ones.

Toxicology

Aubrieta is generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets. Ingestion is unlikely to cause any significant health problems. However, as with any plant, it’s always a good idea to prevent pets or children from consuming large quantities of plant material.

Common Problems

Pests:

• Aphids
• Slugs
• Snails

Diseases:

• Root rot (if soil drainage is poor)
• Fungal leaf spots (in humid conditions)

Other:

• Leggy growth: Insufficient sunlight can cause Aubrieta to become leggy and produce fewer flowers.
• Yellowing leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to yellowing leaves.

Rarity & Value

Rarity:

While Aubrieta itself isn’t considered rare due to its ease of propagation and widespread cultivation, specific cultivars with unique flower colors or growth habits might be less common. Wild populations may be threatened in some areas due to habitat loss.

Value:

The value of Aubrieta is primarily ornamental. Factors affecting its price include:

• Cultivar: Newer or more unusual cultivars may command a higher price.
• Plant Size: Larger, more established plants are generally more expensive.
• Health and Vigor: Healthy, well-grown plants will be valued more highly.