Alpine Rock-Cress
(Arabis alpina)
Alpine Rock-Cress (Arabis alpina)
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Patrick Hacker
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
Patrick Hacker
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Patrick Hacker | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: Patrick Hacker | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2023-06-27T11:43:16-07:00 |

















Estimated Native Range
Summary
Arabis alpina, commonly known as Alpine rock-cress, is a perennial herb that is native to the alpine and subalpine zones of the European mountains, North and East Africa, and temperate regions of North America. It typically grows up to 16 inches (40 cm) tall and features clusters of white, four-petaled flowers that bloom in the spring and are quite showy, making it attractive to butterflies and gardeners alike. Alpine rock-cress is often found in damp gravels and screes, particularly over limestone, where it contributes to the alpine ecosystem by providing nectar for pollinators.
Alpine rock-cress is valued for its ability to thrive in cold, rocky environments, making it an excellent choice for rock gardens and alpine troughs. It requires well-drained soil with a preference for neutral to slightly alkaline conditions and can tolerate partial shade to full sun. This plant is relatively low maintenance, but it benefits from deadheading to encourage additional blooms. It is also studied for its genetic diversity, which offers insights into plant adaptation and survival in harsh climates. In cultivation, it can be propagated by seed or division in the spring or autumn.CC BY-SA 4.0
Alpine rock-cress is valued for its ability to thrive in cold, rocky environments, making it an excellent choice for rock gardens and alpine troughs. It requires well-drained soil with a preference for neutral to slightly alkaline conditions and can tolerate partial shade to full sun. This plant is relatively low maintenance, but it benefits from deadheading to encourage additional blooms. It is also studied for its genetic diversity, which offers insights into plant adaptation and survival in harsh climates. In cultivation, it can be propagated by seed or division in the spring or autumn.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub, Herb
- Height: 0.5-1 feet
- Width: 0.5-1.5 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: White
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Border Plant, Drought Tolerant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
Alpine and subalpine zones of the European mountains, North and East Africa, and temperate regions of North America
Other Names
Common Names: Alpine Arabis, Mountain Rockcress, Gray Rockcress
Scientific Names: , Arabis alpina, Arabidium alpinum, Arabis albida, Arabis alpina f. alpina, Arabis alpina var. albida, Arabis alpina var. declinata, Arabis alpina var. ruderalis, Arabis cuneifolia, Arabis cuneifolia
GBIF Accepted Name: