Arabis 'Barranca Deep Rose' (Rock Cress) – Hardy Evergreen Alpine (Set of 3 or 6)

Arabis 'Barranca Deep Rose' is a low, carpet-forming rock cress that covers itself in small deep rose-pink flowers in early spring, above neat evergreen foliage.

It is one of the first alpines into flower each year. Masses of four-petalled blooms sit just above the leaves from early to mid spring, and the foliage stays green through the rest of the year, so the plant earns its place long after the flowers are over. Bees visit it, and the flowers carry a light scent.

Give it full sun, or light shade for part of the day, and well-drained soil. It is at its best on chalk, gravel and sandy ground, and it hates winter wet, so grit heavy soil before planting. Once established it needs very little water. Use it to soften the edge of a path, spill over a wall or raised bed, fill gaps in a rockery, or edge a patio container. Trim lightly after flowering to keep it dense and tidy. Fully hardy across Britain.

Supplied as a set of three or six well-established plants in 1 litre pots, grown in peat-free compost, ready to plant straight out.

Cultural Information

Common Name: Rock cress

Fully Grown Height and Spread: 10–20 cm x 30–50 cm

Growth Habit: Low-growing, spreading, carpet-forming evergreen perennial

Perfect For: Rockeries, wall edging, gravel gardens, front of border, patio containers

Foliage: Evergreen

Flowering Time: Early to mid spring

Planting Position: Full sun or partial shade; drought tolerant once established; suits patio containers

Soil Type: Well-drained; ideal on chalk, gravel and sandy soils

Hardiness: Fully hardy

Maintenance: Low; trim lightly after flowering

Seasonal Interest: Spring flowers; evergreen foliage

Type: Hardy evergreen alpine perennial