Arabis caucasica Rosea – Graceful pink stonecrop

Arabis caucasica Rosea, also known as pink rocket, is a perennial groundcover known for its beautiful rosette-shaped flowers in soft shades of pink. This robust and low-maintenance plant is ideal for rock gardens, curbs, patio containers, and borders, thanks to its compact growth habit and long flowering period from April to June.

The pink flowers of the Arabis caucasica Rosea form a lavish carpet that adds a fresh, romantic touch to any garden. Its low, spreading growth makes it perfect for filling open spaces between stones or other low-growing plants, creating a natural and harmonious effect.

Origin and characteristics

Arabis caucasica is a perennial native to the Caucasus and is known for its fast-growing and hardy characteristics. The Rosea cultivar was selected for its intense pink flowers, compact growth, and long-lasting blooms, making it a valuable addition to flowering rock gardens and ornamental gravel gardens.

Characteristics of Arabis caucasica Rosea:

• Flower color: soft pink

• Height: 15–20 cm, compact growth

• Flowering period: April – June

• Leaf: green, rosette-shaped, ground-covering

• Uses: rock gardens, borders, kerbs, patio boxes

The Arabis caucasica Rosea is also suitable as a cut flower for small bouquets or decorative table decorations.

Location and care

The Arabis caucasica Rosea grows best in a sunny to lightly shaded spot with well-drained, light soil. It's low-maintenance and winter-hardy, so it returns annually with abundant blooms.

Growing and care tips:

• Sowing/Planting out: Can be sown indoors or directly in the garden after the last frost.

• Planting distance: 20–25 cm for optimal coverage

• Soil: well-drained, slightly calcareous or neutral

• Water: moderate; tolerates drought well

• Pruning: Removing faded flowers promotes a second flowering and compact growth.

Thanks to its fast-growing and hardy properties, this Arabis is a reliable perennial ground cover for any garden.

Use in garden and balcony

Arabis caucasica Rosea is versatile in use:

• Rock gardens: ideal for filling cracks and open spaces

• Borders: adds a layer of color to taller plants

• Curbs and patios: compact, sprawling growth gives a neat effect

• Patio boxes and pots: suitable for raised planting and combinations with other low plants

Thanks to its soft pink flowers, this stonecrop creates a calm and elegant appearance, whether used as a solitary plant or planted in groups.

Bee-friendly and sustainable

The Arabis caucasica Rosea attracts bees and other pollinators and contributes to a healthy and biodiverse garden. It's also low-maintenance and winter-hardy, making it a sustainable choice for any gardener looking for groundcover plants with long-lasting blooms.

Summary

Conclusion

Arabis caucasica Rosea is a beautiful, pink groundcover perennial that adds elegance and color to rock gardens, borders, and patios. Its compact growth, hardiness, and long-lasting blooms make this rock rocket an excellent choice for gardeners looking to create a low-maintenance and aesthetically pleasing garden.