Just like most ornamental plants we love to tuck into our flower beds, the Aubrieta (or “False Rockcress”) is a total fan favorite because of its stunning blooms. Exactly when those vibrant flowers show up really depends on which specific variety you’ve got growing in your garden.
Sun-Lovers Through and Through
Aubrieta originally hails from the Mediterranean and parts of Western Asia. Because of its roots, this plant doesn’t just tolerate the sun—it craves it! To get that thick carpet of flowers we all want, you’ve got to give it plenty of direct sunlight. Keep that in mind when you’re scouting for the perfect spot in your yard.
A Springtime Show
The exact timing of the bloom depends on the variety. Some early birds start showing off as early as March, while others take their time and wait until May to pop. Most varieties you’ll find at the local nursery typically bloom for several weeks between April and May. Because of this timing, Aubrieta looks absolutely killer in rock gardens when paired with:
- Candytuft
- Alyssum
- Rockcress
How to Get a Second Round of Blooms
One of the coolest things about Aubrieta is that you can actually coax it into blooming a second time. The secret? Give it a good, hard pruning right after the first round of flowers fades. By cutting it back, you’re telling the plant to stop putting energy into making seeds and instead focus on growing new flowers before fall hits.
Now, full disclosure: this second bloom usually isn’t as “wow” as the first one, but it still adds a lovely pop of color to your late-summer garden. To give it the best chance at a comeback, toss a little compost its way and make sure it stays well-watered.
