General Culture:
Grow in average, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soil in full sun. Good drainage is particularly important. Cut back plants after flowering to promote denser foliage and to prevent plants from taking on a straggly appearance with the onset of summer heat. Intolerant of high heat and humidity, particularly in areas south of Zone 7 where foliage tends to decline considerably in summer and plant tend to be short-lived.
Noteworthy Characteristics:
Rock cress forms loose spreading rosettes of small, grayish-green leaves. In early spring, fragrant, four-petaled, white, 1/2" flowers borne on elongating racemes extend above and cover the foliage. Plant is typically 8-12" tall when in flower, but otherwise is a sprawling mat of foliage up to 6" high.
Problems: Click for detailed list of pests and problems.
No serious insect or disease problems. Some susceptibility to mildew, rust and aphids. Wet soils in winter can cause root rot.
Uses:
Best when massed as a ground cover in rock gardens, on slopes or cascading over a stone wall. May also be used in the border front as an edging plant. A good compliment to early spring bulbs such as Narcissus.
© Missouri Botanical
Garden, 2001-2009
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