Aurinia saxatilis

Aurinia ‘Saxatilis’ (syn Alyssum ‘Saxatile) is a drought tolerant perennial that flowers from mid spring to early summer. Masses of golden yellow flowers on a low mound forming spreading plant that could act as ground cover.

Often confused with Alyssum, Aurinia ‘Saxatilis’ is a related but very different plant.

With its low growing habit, Aurinia ‘saxatilis’ is ideal as a rock garden plant or to cascade over a low wall. The flower colour gives the plant its common name of called ‘Basket of Gold’.

In the garden, try planting Aurinia saxatilis in companion with true silver foliage plants such as Artemisia. The golden flowers of A saxatalis contract well against the silver of the Artemisia.

How to Grow Care Aurinia ‘Saxatilis – Basic Care

This is an evergreen perennial that grows well in full sun in any humus rich soil. It works well in a rock garden or when allowed to cascade over a retaining wall.

Allow the soil to dry partially between waterings, and in wet or boggy soils, build up the garden bed a little to improve drainage.

It does like good drainage, and requires very little extra care once established. The species will reach around .3m in height and spread over .5m.

Care Summary

1. Plant in full sun to a little shade.
2. Weed area well
3. Amend soil with compost and some age cow manure if needed.
4. Plant and water in.
5. Mulch around the plant.
6. Water when soil begins to dry.

General Maintenance

• Renew mulch each spring.
• Fertilise each spring with a slow release fertiliser.

How to Prune

To maintain a good compact bushy shape, prune back reasonably hard just after flowering.

We suggest taking around 1/3 of the plant at this stage, sometimes a little more. It is easily pruned with hedging shears.

Aurinia saxatilis – Summary Information

• Height – Will reach 40 cm, some cultivars lower.
• Spread – Will spread to 70 cm.
• Growth Rate – Medium in good soil.
• Position – Full sun.
• Soil – Humus rich to sandy loam.
• Foliage – Silvery green.
• Flowers – Golden yellow.
• Flowering period – spring.
• Drought tolerant – Yes once established.
• Frost tolerant – Light frosts only.
• Coastal conditions p suited to second line coastal conditions.

Aurinia saxatilis Varieties

• Look for ‘Saxatile Gold Dust’ a low growing variety.
• ‘Basket of Gold Compacta’ with its great yellow flowers and silver foliage
• ‘Carpet of Snow’ is a white flowering variety also worth seeking.

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