Aubrieta, sometimes spelled 'Aubrietta,' also called Rock Cress and Alyssum deltoideum, is a hardy evergreen perennial with soft green foliage. This plant is prolific in providing long lasting springtime color. As a low growing ground cover, Aubrieta brings alpine and woodland fantasies to life in the desert. In full sun to partial shade, butterflies regularly flit to and fro touching thick patches of red, scarlet, violet, white, purple and blue. Once the flowers fade, to everyone's delight, the plants can be cut back to stimulate a second mid-summer display. Cutting back after blooming also encourages mounding and a dense production of its interesting foliage.

Aubrieta is a good choice for sunny, well-drained areas in rock gardens, borders and raised planters. Once established, offer light, but regular watering. If yellowing of the leaves occurs, simply cut back a bit on water. Certainly, if you're looking for color, Aubrieta has much to offer. With names like purple cascade and royal red, Aubrieta will fill your empty spaces with lasting color.