Aurinia saxatilis (Basket-of-Gold)

A fabulous little plant that should not be overlooked! Basket-of-Gold (Aurinia saxatilis syn. Alyssum saxatile) is an enchanting low-growing, evergreen perennial that will charm your garden with its masses of shining, golden-yellow flowers on display for 4 to 6 weeks in spring and contrasting splendidly with its gray-green foliage. Particularly attractive in rock gardens or cascading over the edge of raised beds, this popular mat-forming plant will keep its good looks after flowering and become an attractive ground cover.

• Drought tolerant, Basket-of-Gold is also ideal for beds, and border fronts, as ground cover and looks stunning among Aubrietas, Moss Phlox (Phlox subulata), or evergreen Candytuft (Iberis sempervirens). Great for containers too!
• Won the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society
• Grows in evergreen mounds up to 6-12 inches tall (15-30 cm) and spreads 12-18 inches (30-45 cm).
• Prefers full sun locations and enjoys dry, average to sandy, well-drained soils. Afternoon shade is appreciated in hot weather areas. Heavy clay soils or moist, poorly well-drained soils are to be avoided! Deer resistant!
• A significant source of nectar for beneficial insects.
• Do not overfertilize! Shear after flowering for a neater appearance.
• Main Aurinia saxatilis cultivars include ‘Citrinum‘, a compact variety with lemon-yellow flowers (12-15 in. tall – 30-45 cm); ‘Compactum‘, a dwarf and denser version (8 in. – 20 cm); ‘Variegata‘ with small, yellow flowers above a mat of large, oval, soft gray-green leaves with creamy margins (9 in. – 22 cm).