With its vibrant blue and purple blooms, Aubrieta—better known as False Rockcress—is a total showstopper in the spring. While it’s a classic staple for rock gardens, this versatile beauty makes a stunning groundcover just about anywhere. If you want that intense carpet of color, though, timing is everything when it gets to planting.
Spring or Fall: When to Plant
Generally speaking, there are two perfect windows for getting your False Rockcress into the ground. Your first chance arrives in early spring; you can start planting as early as March. The second sweet spot is in the fall, starting around October. I actually love the fall planting option because it gives the plant plenty of time to establish a strong root system, setting the stage for a massive bloom the following spring.
Finding That Sunny Spot
Picking the right location is just as important as the timing. Since False Rockcress is native to the Mediterranean, it’s a total sun-worshipper. To really see it thrive, pick the sunniest spot in your garden. It can handle partial shade if it has to, but you’ll definitely want to avoid full shade. Another pro-tip: make sure your soil drains well. These plants hate “wet feet” (standing water), so well-draining soil is a must.
Where to Use It
Once you’ve got the timing and the sunlight figured out, it’s time for the fun part—deciding where it looks best! False Rockcress is incredibly versatile. While this list isn’t exhaustive, here are a few of my favorite ways to use it to give your yard a serious glow-up:
- Tucked into dry stone walls
- At the front of perennial beds
- Growing between paving stones or cracks
- As a colorful garden border
- On sunny slopes or embankments
- Along pathways
- Spilling over the edges of balcony planters
