Arabis blepharophylla Frühlingszauber

Arabis blepharophylla 'Frühlingzauber' is a lovely variety of California Rockcress with deep carmine pink flowering. This vigorous, hardy rock plant forms a compact tuft composed of evergreen, hairy rosettes of leaves in a vibrant green. In spring, it offers long and abundant flowering in lightly scented flower clusters popular with pollinating insects. The combination of its dense small cushions is magnificent with the matte grey of the stones. It is an ideal perennial for covering a wall, filling a trough or a container. It should be grown in well-drained soil without stagnant moisture in winter.

Arabis blepharophylla 'Frühlingzauber', sometimes called 'Spring Charm', belongs to the Brassicaceae family. The Arabis blepharophylla is native to California, where it grows spontaneously in coastal areas, particularly in the San Francisco Bay. This evergreen perennial forms a rounded and compact cushion, approximately 15 to 20 cm (6 to 8in) in height, with a minimum spread of 35 cm (14in). The flowering takes place from April to June. Its small, scented flowers, measuring 1.50 cm (1in) in diameter, are gathered in generous clusters of deep fuchsia to carmine pink. The plant has wide, spoon-shaped leaves that grow in a circular pattern at the base. The flowers, covered in tiny hairs, grow on the plant's green foliage. The edges of the petals are wavy, adding to the plant's unique appearance.

Robust rockcresses are hardy and versatile plants used for various purposes, such as ground cover, walls, beds, or paths. They are an excellent choice for creating a beautiful and long-lasting landscape. The 'Frühlingzauber' Arabis should be planted in well-drained, humus-rich soil. It does not tolerate winter moisture, which can be fatal for it. To ensure its return the following year, plant it in a container or pot that you can protect from rain in winter.