Arabis Snow Cap (Rock Cress)

Description

Masses of tiny, snow white fragrant flowers appear in early spring from April through May against a backdrop of evergreen foliage. The silvery green foliage, barely 20 cm (8″) tall, provides an excellent ground cover all season long. Thin plants to 15 cm (6″)  apart when transplanting or thinning out seedlings. Shearing after blooming will enhance compactness. Persistence can be reduced in heavy, poorly drained soils. Arabis is listed as a North American native plant by some authorities (Kartesz). Perennial hardy to Zone 4.

How to Grow

Start seed indoors in a soil-less mix in January or February; germinate at 24 C (75 F) for 21 days. Press seed into contact with the soil but do not cover as light is essential for germination. After germination, grow on under lights at a slightly cooler temperature before hardening off and transplanting to a sunny or partially shaded site. Two grams sows 3 sq. m. (33 sq. ft.)